Documentary Tool Kit

A research-based tool kit made up of two documentary films, bonus footage, and discussion guides developed by subject matter experts. The tool kit promotes an asset-based view of early adolescence and is intended as a resource to:
  • Engage 10-14 year olds in meaningful conversations about their social and emotional lives as they respond to the film, especially important after two years of pandemic disruption to school and community
  • Catalyze dynamic professional development sessions with middle grade educators, administrators, and afterschool staff about embracing the joy and complexity of early adolescence, fostering a sense of school belonging, deepening student-teacher and student-student relationships, and creating a climate for intellectual risk taking to improve learning
  • Educate teacher candidates, school counselor candidates, and new out-of-school time staff about the developmental characteristics and needs of early adolescents
  • Inspire nuanced and rich discussions in graduate programs
  • Build connections with parents and families by hosting screenings and facilitating conversations about what to expect during these rich developmental years

The Documentary Tool Kit includes:

  • Changing By The Minute – 62 min documentary by award-winning filmmaker
  • Y’All R Real Ones: Middle School Moments – 10 min short documentary
  • Bonus Material – 28min additional commentary, anecdotes, insights
  • Discussion Guides – for different audiences, developed by subject matter experts
Changing By The Minute offers an unprecedented opportunity to hear directly from a diverse collection of early adolescents and observe them over the course of one school year. The film showcases the social emotional development of 10-14 year olds, and provides a jumping off place for discussions about the complexities of friendship, identity, self-expression, ethics and practices that foster a sense of belonging.
The feature documentary and 10min short were filmed at The Center School in New York City, with Elaine Schwartz, principal.

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