Alternative Math - Screening Shorts

In his math test, little Danny has put 22 as the answer to the question “What is 2 + 2?” When his teacher corrects him, he throws a tantrum and complains to his parents.

A media frenzy ensues and the well-meaning teacher now finds herself trumped by a post-fact America.

Clip Details

Genre: Comedy

Country of Origin: USA

Medium/Content: Colour, Sound, Live Action, Fiction

Themes: Communication, Culture/Society, Feelings, Intolerance/Misconceptions, Work/Ambition

Clip Length: 09:04

Age Group: S1-S3, S4-S6

Classroom Activities

01 Critical

How does the filmmaker establish a comic tone? Think about the techniques used.
In the opening scene between Danny and Mrs. Wells, how does the filmmaker choose to introduce these characters? Think about the techniques used?
What effect does the repeating use of an establishing shot of the school have on the audience?
During Mrs. Wells’ meeting with the administrative board, what techniques does the filmmaker use to intimidate Mrs. Wells? How was the scene shot? What other techniques help highlight this feeling?
At the end of the film, how does the filmmaker show that Mrs. Wells finally won?

02 Cultural

“Students Count Teachers Divide” and “God hates facts” are just two of the signs carried by the protesters outside the school. Firstly, can you think about what they mean by this in terms of schools in America? Secondly, can you think about how these could be related to schools where you live?
Can you compare the school depicted in the film to your school? How do they differ?

03 Creative

Make a short documentary film depicting life in your school. You can choose to show one full school day or one full week of school. Think about what you would want to show someone from another country. How accurately do you want to show school life? Remember to plan your short film in terms of narrative and how you plan to shoot.

Create a poster advertising the film. You are to give the audience an idea of what the film is about and to include images/information that will make them want to watch it.