The Curriculum Through ICT Program
Ideas Bank

Anaconda Animations
Years 3 - 7Years 7 - 10

THE TASK

Students created an electronic book (eBook) based on the Angela Anaconda animated TV series. This learning activity was part of a broader task in which students had learned about making appropriate decisions on a number of issues in the face of peer pressure. Each eBook illustrated an appropriate response to one issue. Between the class the range of issues were addressed and this resource was subsequently shared with classes in other local schools.

Students viewed a range of Angela Anaconda books, videos and the official website, identifying the way the characters were animated, how narration and music were used, and symbols and stereotypes. They used digital cameras and image manipulation software to create similar images of themselves and friends.

The eBooks were rough drafted as storyboards in which students explored one peer issue using the style of animation and presentation of the Angela Anaconda series. The eBooks were created using slide software (such as Kid Pix or PowerPoint) and narration and music were included. Products were premiered to the upper primary classes and shared with local schools.

ICT ENRICHMENT

  • Some students created an animated character using paper collage. This enabled the class to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using ICT for this process.
  • Manipulating the elements of each characer, such as changing the size and colour of body parts and clothing was simplified through use of image manipulation software.
  • Draft eBooks were peer reviewed and proposed improvements were conferenced with the teacher. ICT enabled fast, productive editing to take place.

SUGGESTED RESOURCES

ASSESSMENT

  • The Viewing outcome was monitored as students completed tasks around the various Angela Anaconda texts and videos.
  • The other outcomes (Writing, Arts Skills and Processes, Self-Management Skills) were monitored continually through questioning, using an "over-the-shoulder" checklist, using the finished eBook product, and through the students' reflections on the content of their resulting eBooks.
  • Students self- and peer-reviewed draft eBooks and final products.

LEARNING AREA OUTCOMES

The Arts
Arts Skills and Processes

English
Viewing
Writing

Health & Physical Education
Self-Management Skills

Based on a learning program developed by Michelle Westlake & Mark Harrison.
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