Part of Lesson Plan: The 180 Degree Rule (dialogue technique)

Activity Overview / Details

Before we begin this section of the lesson, place the students into groups of four.  These will be the production groups for the video assignment.  Hand out the document titled, "Don't Cross The Line! to each student.

TEACHER* Ask the students to read the hand out, as you bring out a camera on a tripod.

Now, you need one of the groups to volunteer (or choose one group) for the technique demonstration.

Ask the class to refer to the handout as the demonstration takes place.

(I have included a Power Point presentation I use when I demonstrate this technique. I control the PPT, and have the student group move the camera around in various locations - following the 180 degree rule.)

PROCEDURE:  Have two students stand or sit and pretend to engage in a conversation.

Ask the other two students to handle the camera and tripod.

STEP 1:  Ask the students the following question: "remember in math class, geometry to be specific - how many degrees are there in a circle? or How many degrees make up a complete circle?"   ANSWER: 360 degrees.

OK, imagine a circle around the subjects of this scene....  where is the action line, or the 180 degree line?   Make sure to point out the line.  (you could use string to emphasize this line)

Now simply follow along to place the camera along different angles - all on the same side of the 180 degree line as indicated from the videos and handout.