High School

These movie guides are recommended for high school students. Consequently they are usually rated either PG-13 or R and hence some of them aren’t suited for students below the age of 13.  In addition, I recommend always checking a parental review, on IMDb for example, before showing these videos to your students to check if they are suitable for your student population.  Probably, the best course of action is to preview the entire movie before showing it while looking for any additional content you’d like to point out to your students.

Movies in high school classrooms provide valuable instructional opportunities, engaging students and enhancing their understanding of historical and social studies topics. Incorporating films like “Hidden Figures” and other famous movies into the curriculum captivates students’ attention and deepens their knowledge.

Firstly, movies offer visual storytelling that complements traditional teaching methods. By watching historically significant events unfold on screen, students gain a richer understanding of the context, setting, and characters involved. These visual narratives make the subject matter more relatable and accessible.

Furthermore, movies provide a platform for critical thinking and analysis. Through guided discussions and thoughtful reflection, students can dissect the themes, messages, and social issues depicted in the films. This fosters a deeper understanding of complex historical events and encourages students to think critically about their relevance to society today.

Movies also promote empathy and perspective-taking. By immersing themselves in the lives and experiences of historical figures, students gain insight into different perspectives and develop a more comprehensive understanding of diverse cultures and backgrounds.

In addition, using movies in the classroom cultivates discussion and collaboration. Students can engage in group activities, debates, and research projects centered around the films, fostering communication skills, teamwork, and a sense of shared learning.

Integrating movies into high school instruction not only makes learning enjoyable but also helps students develop essential skills. They learn to analyze and evaluate historical events, draw connections between past and present, and develop a critical lens through which they view society.

In conclusion, leveraging movies like “Hidden Figures” and other renowned films in high school classrooms provides a powerful educational tool. These movies bring history to life, inspire critical thinking, foster empathy, and encourage collaborative learning. By harnessing the captivating power of films, educators can create engaging and impactful learning experiences that resonate with students long after the credits roll.