Ron Littke's FILMMAKING students create, from scratch, one original film based on any curriculum being presented by the classroom teacher. The subject of the student film is decided by democratic process.
Ron's lessons delve into the inner workings of the highly complex system of film production. Students discover that even the most daunting tasks can be accomplished with proper study, planning, and attention to detail. The young filmmakers learn about and improve on their visual art skills in drawing, color theory, and collage, as they work in both two- and three-dimensions. They improve skills in writing, technology, and a variety of theater arts such as acting, costuming, makeup, props, lighting, sets, and more. Students gain experience in working individually and collaboratively towards the collective goal of creating a class film.
FILMMAKING with RON LITTKE is a twelve-week Workshop with ten 90-minute classroom sessions, preceded by one planning meeting and followed by one assessment meeting. Camera, lights, and DVDs are provided.
Ron Littke is a Brooklyn resident who has worked for two decades as a teaching artist specializing in filmmaking, video, and radio. Ron has presented workshops in public elementary, middle and high schools in all five boroughs of New York City, and elsewhere. His video art often takes the form of documentary style narratives that focus on little known historic events or places, and raise questions about the nature of history. Ron has worked throughout the United States and Europe as an actor, comedy writer, performance, and video artist, and has been a contributing producer for CBS This Morning, ABC Evening News, MTV News, and Deep Dish TV.
About his filmmaking workshop Ron says, "I see myself as a guide into the world of art. I want students to explore the terrain themselves, to experiment and have fun. Making a film is a collaboration that involves writing, visual art, photography and acting. In order to be successful, students must work together. As a teacher I am patient. I see students as individuals and work with their particular strengths. I see them as fellow filmmakers and they see me as one of their collaborators." The underlying philosophy that guides all of Ron's work with children is that "art should be, above all, a source of joy in their lives."