Film Studies
The Allegory of Opus
Unpacking the allegory of A24's Opus characters.
Film Studies
Opus Opening Sequence
Analyze character and world in the opening sequence of A24's horror satire film, Opus.
The Babadook
The Babadook SxS Film Sequence Analysis Practice Activity
COMING SOON: Opening Sequence Film Analysis Activity for Jennifer Kent's The Babadook.
Sci-fi
Arrival Opening Film Sequence Analysis Practice
COMING SOON: Shot by Shot breakdown and film sequence analysis activity for the opening sequence of Arrival.
ELA
Why the Analytical Paragraph Still Matters in a World of Scrolls and Soundbites
When I first started teaching high school English in a wealthy, high-achieving public school district, I was surprised by how often students would argue over a single point on an assignment. At first, I chalked it up to academic perfectionism or entitlement. But one day, a colleague explained that students
Writing
How to Write a Strong Analytical Thesis Statement in High School and IB English
Learn how to write a clear, compelling analytical thesis statement for high school or IB English class. This guide breaks down sentence frames, provides real examples, and shows how to level up your thinking.
9th Grade ELA
Why So Many Students Struggle with Literary Analysis—And How The House on Mango Street Can Help
“Why can’t I get above a B on my English essays?” I hear this question all the time from students—and I understand their frustration. They want to do well. They’re smart. They read the book. But when it comes time to write about literature, something’s not
Into the Spider-Verse
Parallel Film Frame Analysis Practice for Into the Spider-Verse
A high-impact visual literacy + writing activity for high school ELA or Film & Media Studies classrooms in school or homeschool.
Into the Spider-Verse
Scene Study Guiding Questions for Into the Spiderverse
40+ Scaffolded Film Analysis Prompts for Classroom & Homeschool Use
Advanced English Class
Film Analysis for Students: Visual Framing & Emotional Distance in Into the Spider-Verse (pt. 4)
Learn how to analyze film scenes with this breakdown of framing, distance, and symbolism in Into the Spider-Verse. Perfect for students, teachers, and visual storytelling enthusiasts.
Summer Enrichment
Teaching Visual Literacy with Into the Spider-Verse (pt. 1)
Teach film analysis without a film degree! Use Into the Spider-Verse to build students’ visual literacy, critical thinking, and ELA writing skills.
Analysis
How to Do a Shot-by-Shot Film Sequence Analysis
Plus a Free Lesson Using Azazel Jacobs' His Three Daughters If you’ve ever wanted to teach (or learn) how to truly read a the rich language of film, a shot-by-shot analysis is one approach that can help you dig in to the details. Whether you're a