Teaching Students About First Sound Film
![](https://dev.theedadvocate.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/prothro_perry_teacher_1-660x400.webp)
The first sound film, also known as a talkie, was a pivotal moment in film history. It revolutionized the industry and marked a significant milestone in the evolution of cinema. As educators, it’s our responsibility to teach students about the important moments that have shaped our world and to appreciate the impact of these milestones, including the arrival of sound in film.
Teaching students about the first sound film is an exciting opportunity to introduce them to the origins of sound in film and to examine how technological advancements influenced the way filmmakers tell their stories. Here are some ideas on how to teach students about first sound film:
Start with a brief history of cinema – Before diving into the first sound film, it’s helpful to provide students with some context about the early years of cinema. This could include discussing the invention of the camera, the arrival of motion pictures, and the early silent films.
Introduce Jazz Singer – Explain to students that the Jazz Singer was the first full-length sound movie. This anecdote could be interesting if the teacher shares bits of trivia with the students such as that the Jazz Singer was initially intended to be a silent movie however Warner Bros decided to add sound after editing began.
Review the impact on the Industry – The arrival of sound in film brought about a significant change in the film industry. Movies were no longer limited to the visual and artistic elements, but also included audio and dialogue that allowed for greater character development. Discussing this impact with students can provide a greater appreciation for the evolution of filmmaking.
Screen Classic Footage – It can also be helpful to screen scenes from classic talkies, such as The Jazz Singer or Gone with the Wind. This can help students visualize the impact of sound on film and appreciate the historical significance of these films.
Assign Assignments – As an assignment, students could be asked to watch classic sound films and examine the use of sound, dialogue and music in the movies that already utilize it. For example, they could analyze how music is used in The Wizard of Oz or Jaws to change the atmosphere of the scene.
In conclusion, teaching students about the first sound film is an engaging and valuable way to introduce them to the history of cinema. Through this discussion, students can appreciate the impact of technology on the film industry and the importance of preserving important artifacts of our cultural, artistic, and technological legacy.