8 Movies to Teach Students How to Adapt to Change
May 25, 2023Teaching students about the concept of adapting to change can be a challenge. Films offer a unique way to introduce these important themes. This post explores eight incredible movies that showcase characters navigating and adapting to new or changing circumstances. The resilience and flexibility exhibited by these characters in the face of life’s uncertainties provide valuable lessons. Check out these 8 Movies to teach students how to adapt to change through relatable narratives and compelling characters. Let’s begin!
Lion (PG-13 – 2016)
In Lion, the protagonist Saroo, a five-year-old Indian boy, gets lost on a train and ends up thousands of kilometers away from home. Saroo’s journey of adaptation begins when he is adopted by an Australian couple. As an adult, Saroo uses technology to trace his roots, a process that tests his ability to navigate between two worlds and adapt to the shocking revelations of his past.
Remember the Titans (PG – 2000)
Remember the Titans tells a story of a newly integrated high school football team in 1971 Virginia. The team and their coaches must overcome racial tensions and adapt to the new societal norms. Their journey to unity and success serves as an inspiring example of change adaptation.
The Pursuit of Happyness (PG-13 – 2006)
The Pursuit of Happyness follows Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman, and his son. Chris endures homelessness and financial instability while pursuing a competitive internship at a brokerage firm. His perseverance and adaptability in the face of adversity are truly inspiring.
The Martian (PG-13 – 2015)
In The Martian, astronaut Mark Watney is left stranded on Mars after a mission gone wrong. Faced with limited supplies and no immediate rescue, Watney must adapt to his new environment and find a way to survive until rescue is possible.
Drumline (PG-13 – 2002)
Drumline follows Devon, a talented drummer who earns a scholarship to a Southern university. There, he must adapt to the style of the school’s disciplined band director and learn the value of teamwork. This journey of self-growth and adaptability forms the core of the movie.
The Hunger Games (PG-13 – 2012)
The Hunger Games introduces us to Katniss Everdeen, a teenager who volunteers to participate in a deadly televised competition. To survive, Katniss must constantly adapt to new threats and challenges, exemplifying resilience in a rapidly changing environment.
Life of Pi (PG – 2012)
Life of Pi is a tale of survival and adaptability at its finest. Pi Patel, stranded on a lifeboat in the Pacific Ocean with a Bengal tiger, must adapt to his extraordinary circumstances to survive. His journey is a testament to human resilience in the face of drastic change.
Spare Parts (PG-13 – 2015)
Spare Parts chronicles the journey of four high school students who form a robotics club. With limited resources and no experience, they must adapt quickly to compete against elite colleges in a national robotics competition. Their story is an uplifting example of adaptability in the face of adversity.
These movies can help students understand the concept of adapting to change through relatable narratives and compelling characters. The ability to adapt to new situations is a crucial life skill, and these movies demonstrate this in an engaging and accessible way. Whether it’s adapting to a new culture, overcoming adversity, or surviving in a harsh environment, the characters in these films embody the essence of adaptability.
Do you want to search for more movies by their educational key concept?
Check out this blog post to discover 21 educational key concepts and find more movies that align with each one!