The Year 9 English class of Mrs Emma Armstrong were recently
set the task of debating the challenge of rising obesity rates in Wales and
England. Creating a short speech individually or in pairs, the pupils described
tips and advice for tackling obesity in Wales, which they then used to produce
a short film using iMovie or Windows Movie Maker.
Students have been exploring logos, ethos and pathos across
literature, and this formed a basis for the content of the films. Using facts
and figures to demonstrate the extent of the problem, students emphasised the
risk of disease and higher death rates, highlighting that 57% of Wales is
overweight, with a startling 22% being obese.
Pupils were encouraged to use persuasive techniques in their
speeches, creating empathy with the viewer. Initially tackling the practical
aspect of the issue, students explored the health implications of an obese
nation. This led into discussing the aspirations and ambitions of Wales as a
nation and how this could pave the path for a healthier 2015. Focusing on the
Welsh rugby team, pupils underlined the triumphs of this successful team and
the part it plays in the Welsh national identity, using this as a platform for
encouraging people to become involved in the iconic sport. Finally, the work
done on pathos played a part in the students’ speeches, as they focused on the
emotional side of the weight issues. Not being able to play with children and
losing family members constituted the main focal point of this.
Using video-editing software, students then spent time
putting together a short film, which were watched and reviewed by members of
the class. Marcus James and Aelfric Philliskirk produced the winning entry,
which was set up as a news report bulletin, with both students acting as
newsreaders. The film captured viewers’ attention throughout, with Mrs
Armstrong praising use of emotive language and persuasive techniques.