1. Activity 7: LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
• There are many ways to communicate a certain message. One of
these is through the language of the camera. As you view and
listen to a video of a choric interpretation of “The Anatomy of a
Filipino” by Professor Felix Bautista, pay particular attention to
how the message is conveyed through certain shots. Before you
do that, gear up by being familiar with the terms found below.
A. Film Grammar
B. Visual literacy
Using what you have learned about the basic camera shots,
analyze this video and determine if there is variety of shots. Use
the grid below to capture your observation
2. Television and film use certain
common conventions often referred
to as the 'grammar' of these
audiovisual media. The list includes
some of the most important
conventions for conveying meaning
through particular camera and
editing techniques (as well as some
of the specialized vocabulary of film
production).
con·ven·tion : a traditional or common style often used in literature, theater,
or art to create a particular effect
3. WHAT IS VISUAL LITERACY?
• Visual Literacy = Reading Pictures
• Visual literacy has been defined
as the “ability to understand,
interpret and evaluate visual
messages” (Bristor & Drake,
1994).
6. • Using what you have learned about the basic camera
shots, analyze this video and determine if there is
variety of shots.
• PROCESS QUESTIONS:
1. Are different shots used in making the video?
2. Is the video effective in forwarding the message of the
text through the shots used?
3. What can be done to improve this video? What is the
purpose for each type of shot?
7. What are speech choirs?
• “Speech choirs are performance groups that
recite speeches in unison, often with
elements of choreography and costuming to
help bring the speech to life. Much like
musical choirs, dynamic -- volume -- range,
expression and accurate coordination of
syllables are all important for a successful
performance. Speech choirs date back to
ancient Greece, where they were an integral
part of most plays.”
Chris Magyar
Elements of a Speech Choir
8. As you prepare for your choral interpretation, get to know some important tips and
techniques. Take a look at the anatomy of a speech choir in the illustration below.