CBC Archives

Prepare a two-column chart on the board or chart paper, with columns titled “Film” and “Literature.” Write the following quotation from Norman Jewison on the board: “Film is the literature of this generation.” Ask students to identify the different qualities of film and literature, the impact they have in their lives, and the roles both play in society. Ask: What films have played the same role in society as literature once did?

Have students visit the topic Master Storyteller Norman Jewison on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site to view Clips #1 and #3 and the Additional Clip “Jewison only interested in telling good stories.” Either individually or in groups, give students at least one hour to review the site and take notes about the importance of film and its power to tell stories.

Have students share three or four interesting points about film and filmmaking. Ask: Can films influence or change the way people think or feel about certain issues? What makes Jewison such a good storyteller?

Students can rent a film directed by Jewison, screen it, and write a personal response in which they discuss the issues explored by the film and how the film influenced their opinions or ideas.