Documentaries can be a powerful tool in education, offering insights and sparking discussions on important topics. Here are nine documentaries that are perfect for high school classrooms, each with its unique message and impact.
This inspiring film tells the story of Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani teenager who became a Nobel Prize winner. It showcases her courage in standing up for girls’ education and presents her as a relatable teenage girl. Malala’s journey encourages viewers to choose between silence and taking a stand for what they believe in.
Narrated by Samuel L. Jackson, this documentary connects the ideas of writer and activist James Baldwin to modern-day issues. It explores the intersections of race, art, and activism in America, challenging viewers to think about the country’s future and the role of racial equality in shaping it.
This feel-good documentary is about a group of lower-income teens who enter a robotics competition and end up beating prestigious university teams, including M.I.T. It’s a story of determination and innovation, highlighting the power of STEM education and the potential of young minds.
Exploring how women are portrayed in media, this film encourages both girls and boys to critically analyze media messages. It emphasizes the importance of women telling their own stories to create emotional impact and inspire change. The film challenges the notion that “you can’t be what you can’t see.”
This documentary delves into the societal messages about masculinity and what it means to be male today. It encourages viewers to reflect on the pressures boys face and the importance of expressing emotions. The film promotes a healthier understanding of masculinity and emotional well-being.
Lizzie Velasquez, an anti-bullying activist, shares her journey of overcoming bullying and embracing self-love. Her story is a powerful reminder to stand up to bullies and believe in oneself. The documentary inspires viewers to love who they are and not let negativity define them.
This documentary is a raw and honest look at the impact of bullying in schools. While difficult to watch, it is essential viewing for students, encouraging them to stand up against bullying rather than being bystanders. It emphasizes the collective power of standing together to create change.
Exploring the role of sugar in America’s obesity epidemic, this documentary pairs scientific interviews with a call to action. It highlights the addictive nature of sugar and the need for dietary changes in America. The film challenges viewers to rethink their eating habits and advocate for healthier lifestyles.
This documentary, both informative and engaging, addresses the widening inequality gap in America. It raises awareness about economic disparities and questions who is truly advocating for the American worker. The film encourages viewers to consider the implications of inequality on society.
For more recommendations and ideas on how to use these films in your classroom, visit Common Sense Education.
Organize a discussion panel where you and your classmates explore the themes of courage and activism presented in “He Named Me Malala.” Prepare questions and topics related to the importance of education and standing up for one’s beliefs. Reflect on how Malala’s story can inspire you to make a difference in your community.
Create a multimedia project that connects the themes of race, art, and activism from “I Am Not Your Negro” to current events. Use video clips, artwork, or written pieces to express your understanding of racial equality and its impact on society. Share your project with the class to spark a meaningful conversation.
Participate in a hands-on STEM challenge where you design and build a simple robot or engineering project. Use the story of “Underwater Dreams” as motivation to push your creative and problem-solving skills. Present your project and discuss the importance of perseverance and innovation in STEM fields.
Conduct a workshop where you analyze various media sources to identify how women are portrayed. Discuss the impact of these portrayals on societal perceptions and self-image. Use “Miss Representation” as a guide to critically evaluate media messages and propose ways to promote diverse and empowering representations.
Write a reflective essay on the societal expectations of masculinity as explored in “The Mask You Live In.” Consider how these expectations affect your life and the lives of those around you. Discuss the importance of emotional expression and propose strategies for fostering a healthier understanding of masculinity.
**Sanitized Transcript:**
NARRATOR: Here are nine great documentaries for high school classrooms that will open students’ eyes and encourage discussion.
Number one: “He Named Me Malala.”
MALALA YOUSAFZAI: There’s a moment when you have to choose whether to be silent or to stand up.
NARRATOR: Moving, intense, and delightful, this film introduces the Pakistani teen not only as a Nobel Prize-winner and inspiring role model, but as a real-life teenage girl.
Number two: “I Am Not Your Negro.”
SAMUEL L. JACKSON: The story of the Negro in America is the story of America.
NARRATOR: Challenging and insightful, this documentary connects the decades-old ideas of writer and activist James Baldwin to current issues, exploring the intersections of race, art, and activism. And the future of the country depends on that.
NARRATOR: Number three, “Underwater Dreams.”
MAN: Who are these individuals from nowhere that had no business doing what they do? You know, what is that?
NARRATOR: Full of STEM inspiration, this feel-good film is about a group of lower-income teens who enter a robotics competition and wind up beating some big-name university teams, including M.I.T.
Number four: “Miss Representation.”
ROSARIO DAWSON: It’s extremely important for women to be writing their own stories and sharing them with people to really emotionally impact them.
NARRATOR: An uncompromising look at how women are portrayed in popular media, this film invites both girls and boys to be conscious of how they interpret media messages.
MARIE WILSON: You can’t be what you can’t see.
NARRATOR: Number five, “The Mask You Live In.”
BOY: If you really knew me, you would know that when I’m sad, I… really don’t say anything about it.
NARRATOR: This edgy but important film offers a deeply affecting look at media messages about masculinity and what it really means to be male in today’s society.
MAN: I tell my son I love him every day.
NARRATOR: Number six, “A Brave Heart: The Lizzie Velasquez Story.”
Lizzie Velasquez: Am I going to let the people who said, “Kill it with fire,” define me? No.
NARRATOR: In this inspirational documentary, anti-bullying activist Lizzie Velasquez offers a powerful message about standing up to bullies, believing in yourself, and loving who you are.
NARRATOR: Number seven, “Bully.”
BOY: I like learning, but I have trouble with making friends.
NARRATOR: It’s heartbreaking and difficult to watch, but this frank documentary is essential viewing, even for high schoolers. Ultimately, it encourages students to stand up rather than stand by.
MAN: If we all do it together, we will change the world.
NARRATOR: Number eight, “Fed Up.”
MAN: Your brain lights up with sugar just like it does with cocaine or heroin. You’re going to become an addict.
NARRATOR: Persuasive and bold, this look at sugar’s role in America’s obesity epidemic pairs interviews with scientists and researchers with a compelling call to action.
MAN: You have to change the diet of America.
NARRATOR: And number nine, “Inequality for All.”
NARRATOR: Who is actually looking out for the American worker? The answer is nobody.
NARRATOR: Info-packed, yet conversational and often funny, this film aims to raise awareness about the widening inequality gap in America.
For more great picks and for ideas on how to use these films in your classroom, visit us at Common Sense Education.
Documentaries – Non-fiction films or television programs that provide a factual report on a particular subject, often used to educate or inform viewers about social, political, or historical issues. – Documentaries about civil rights movements can offer profound insights into the struggles and triumphs of activists throughout history.
Education – The process of receiving or giving systematic instruction, especially at a school or university, which plays a crucial role in shaping individuals and societies. – Education is a powerful tool that can bridge the gap between different social classes and promote equality.
Activism – The policy or action of using vigorous campaigning to bring about political or social change. – Environmental activism has gained momentum as more people recognize the urgent need to address climate change.
Inequality – The state of not being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities, often leading to social and economic disparities. – Addressing income inequality is essential for creating a more just and equitable society.
Masculinity – A set of attributes, behaviors, and roles associated with boys and men, which can be influenced by cultural and societal norms. – The concept of masculinity is evolving as society challenges traditional gender roles and expectations.
Bullying – Unwanted, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance, often repeated over time, causing harm to those targeted. – Schools are implementing programs to combat bullying and create a safer environment for all students.
Media – The main means of mass communication, such as television, radio, newspapers, and the internet, which play a significant role in shaping public opinion and culture. – The media has the power to influence societal norms and perceptions, making it a critical tool for social change.
Empowerment – The process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights. – Women’s empowerment is crucial for achieving gender equality and fostering economic development.
Obesity – A medical condition characterized by excessive body fat, which can have negative effects on health and is influenced by various social and environmental factors. – Public health campaigns aim to reduce obesity rates by promoting healthier lifestyles and nutrition education.
Innovation – The introduction of new ideas, methods, or products, which can drive progress and change in society. – Technological innovation has transformed the way we communicate and access information, impacting every aspect of modern life.
