FastCoast Film Academy: MIDDLE SCHOOL - Empowering Students

Through Filmmaking

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The FastCoast Film Academy’s Crash Course 101 - Filmmaking is a dynamic 8-week

program designed to give 5th-8th grade students hands-on experience in storytelling, directing,

cinematography, and editing. More than just a technical course, this program fosters confidence,

leadership, and management skills by immersing students in the role of a filmmaker.

By taking charge of their own film project—from script to screen—students develop essential

teamwork, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities. Choosing their genre (comedy,

horror, drama, or action) and collaborating in various production roles teaches them how to lead

a team, manage time, and see a creative vision through to completion. Whether directing

actors, organizing scenes, or refining their film in post-production, students build communication

and organizational skills that translate into real-world leadership opportunities.

For parents, educators, and grant organizations, this course offers students a structured,

confidence-building experience that enhances both creative and professional growth.

Filmmaking cultivates public speaking, collaboration, and project management skills,

preparing students not just for the arts, but for any career requiring leadership and teamwork.

By the end of the program, students will have completed their own short film, gaining both a

tangible portfolio piece and the confidence to take on future creative challenges. This course

is not just about making movies—it’s about empowering students to be leaders, storytellers,

and visionaries.

FastCoast Film Academy: Crash Course 101 - Filmmaking

Instructor: Christian Ackerman

Duration: 8 Weeks (1 hour per week)

Target Audience: 9th-12th Grade Students

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Week 1: Introduction & Genre Selection

• Overview of the course and filmmaking process

• Exploration of different genres: comedy, horror, drama, action

• Group discussion and genre selection for the class project

• Brainstorming initial story ideas

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Week 2: Storytelling & Screenwriting

• Basics of writing a short script (3-5 pages)

• Understanding structure: beginning, middle, and end

• Character development and dialogue writing

• Group collaboration to finalize script outline

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Week 3: Pre-Production & Planning

• Understanding filmmaking roles (director, cinematographer, actors, editor, etc.)

• Storyboarding and shot listing

• Location scouting and set design considerations

• Costumes, props, and special effects planning

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Week 4: Cinematography & Lighting

• Camera techniques for different genres

• Lighting strategies for mood and tone

• Practical hands-on demonstration with test shots

• Blocking and rehearsing scenes

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Week 5: Acting & Directing

• How to direct actors and convey emotion effectively

• Acting techniques suited for different genres

• On-set communication and problem-solving

• Group practice: directing and performing short scenes

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Week 6: Filming the Short Film (Part 1)• Setting up and executing key shots

• Capturing multiple takes and angles

• Managing time and troubleshooting on set

• Hands-on filming with all students involved

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Week 7: Filming the Short Film (Part 2) & Post-Production Basics

• Finishing any remaining scenes

• Introduction to video editing (cutting, pacing, transitions)

• Adding sound design and music to enhance the story

• Color correction and visual effects overview

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Week 8: Final Film Showcase & Wrap-Up

• Screening the finished short film

• Discussion on challenges and successes

• Q&A and career pathways in filmmaking

• Certificates of completion & group photo

By the end of this 8-week course, students will have hands-on experience in all stages of

filmmaking and will walk away with a completed short film in their chosen genre. This class

fosters creativity, teamwork, and technical skills, preparing students for future projects in film

and beyond. Let me know if you'd like any modifications!