Course Syllabus

Welcome to the Intensive TV/Video Production Course:

Teacher: Mrs. Spilka, spilkaj@wellesleyps.org

Office Hours/Open Editing Studio: Mondays and Thursdays, 2:30-3:00

Course Objectives: Students in the intensive course are independent workers, self-motivated, and committed to their studies of TV-Video.  Students in this course have demonstrated their skills and commitment to TV/Video production in the introductory, intermediate and advanced classes. Most of the work will be done individually and students will be asked to film and edit in school and at home.  It is expected that the guidelines of previous courses be continued in the intensive course. Students are expected to also act as Teacher’s Assistants to the course they are assigned. 

Expectations for Intensive students:

  • Check in all equipment towards the end of class
  • Charge batteries that have been used
  • Film question of the week for half the class and edit for other half of class
  • *** New this year: we are making the announcements into a shortened TikTok/Instagram video so we need to edit them down for that ***
  • Be a good example to the students in the class you are TA'ing, that means no swearing, use of phone, goofing around, etc.
  • Help kids with using the cameras and tripods by SHOWING them how to use the equipment, not just doing it for them
  • Help kids with being in their videos or being interviewed if needed
  • Once we start editing, answer any editing questions they may have to the best of your abilities
REQUIRED: Intensive Art Show
Because TV Video is part of the visual arts department, students are required to make a video for the Intensive show where the theme is “Personal Connections.” Last year the theme was “identity” and this year the video can be about someone you personally connect with, look up to, consider a hero, etc. This has to be about you or someone in your life and not about a professional athlete or famous person. Please work on this throughout the semester and when there is downtime. Video should be approximately 5-10 minutes long.

Grades: will be based on the following criteria:

* Quality of your work and the effort you put into each assignment.

* Conduct in the course (care of equipment, cooperation with teachers and classmates, respect for teachers and classmates). Video production is a team effort, so we weigh teamwork heavily.

* Communication:  Many events will take place simultaneously. It is imperative that you keep your teachers informed about the status of your projects, what problems you may be encountering, and your anticipated absences. 

* Community service:  We expect you to meet your obligation to film segments for the Friday Morning Announcements or be available to film other community events as requested.  Students must occasionally come in at 7:45 AM on Thursdays to assist with the morning announcements.

* Time Use: It is expected that each student be able to have an independent project to work on throughout the semester to enter into the Film Festival. Even when you are between projects, take the initiative to help others, practice a new skill or learn something new. 

* Effort: If you are respectful, follow rules, ask questions, take care of equipment and attempt to be creative and complete your projects, you will do well.