Today's lesson will introduce you to the narrative in film. You have already researched the historical period in which the novel Emma, by Jane Austen was written. You have read the novel and watched movie, and studied two characters in depth. You have also done a lot of activities to help you think critically about the elements of narrative writing.

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. STUDENTS ARE TO READ AND REFLECT ON THE LECTURE BELOW.
2. OPEN, READ AND COMPLETE THE ATTACHED ACTIVITY 1.

3. ACTIVITY 2: OPEN AND READ THE ATTACHED QUESTIONS ON THE NOVEL AND FILM AND SUBMIT COMPLETED ANSWERS NO LATER THAN 24 HOURS AFTER THIS LESSON.

4. COMPLETE THE HOMEWORK BY THE NEXT LESSON.

5. READ THE ATTACHED ESSAY TOPICS AND START TO THINK ABOUT WHICH YOU WOULD LIKE TO CHOOSE FOR YOUR MAJOR ASSIGNMENT.

Film as Text

The moving images of film are a powerful form of communication, and have a different impact than text. Films entertain us, but can also influencing our attitudes and behaviour, and make use take sides to feel how the producer feels about the subject. Watching a film allows us to see someone else's visual interpretation of a text, providing a different way of studying the themes, motives and symbols in a story.

The narrative strategies we have reviewed in previous lessons, that are used in a novel, are replaced by the sorts of cinematic tools described below. The storyline of a movie is called a 'narrative pattern' and is similar to that of a novel. The basic elements of a narrative pattern are linked by a series of steps and include:
· Orientation - setting the scene, introducing the main characters;
· Creation of complications to create tension and conflict;
· Resolution of conflict.

The narrative pattern also has invisible links that are often less obvious and which usually tie emotions together within the story. These include:
· Choice of shots:

o long - establishes setting, gives overview o medium - refines setting o close-up - creates tension o low-angle - creates sense of threat/fear o high-angle - creates overview, sense of power

· Sequence - How the camera moves from one person or scene to another to establish what they are doing or feeling. Are flashbacks used?

· Use of music and other sounds:

o setting the 'mood' - how does it make you feel? o do songs and lyrics match the storyline? o are sound effects appropriate/realistic? o is there a theme?

Lighting:

o Bright, clear or soft lighting creates a sense of security and frankness o Low-key lighting and shadows creates a sense of drama, tension or fear. · Symbols. This is often the most subtle type of narrative link.

Consider:

o What does the clothing and make-up indicate about the character? o What does body language tell you? o Are there any particular colours, sounds or actions that are symbolic?

Consider the above elements of narrative pattern when you complete today's exercise.

Homework:

A character in a film is usually the one with which we most identify. Film-makers develop characters by using a variety of techniques. These include:

· Appearance
· Language
· Body language, gestures, glances etc.
· Property and possessions
· Setting and atmosphere
· Relationships with other characters.

Homework - Step 1
Using the biography you wrote in Lesson 3, compare the book and film versions of your chosen character and email it to the teacher before the next lesson. Write 300 words.

Homework - Step 2 (Optional)

Students are invited to search the Internet to find an official website of the film, and use a photo from it to decorate their homework.