Created in 1939, the NFB is a federal agency under the Department of Canadian Heritage. Its mandate is to create, produce, and distribute distinctive and original audiovisual works that reflect the diverse realities and perspectives of Canadians, and to share these works with the people of Canada and the rest of the world. Source
Using audiovisual media with our students helps create a dynamic learning environment. As Canadian educators we can inspire our students by promoting Canadian filmmakers. Canada’s National Film Board provides many examples of film and video across all subject areas and age groups. Here are some examples of NFB content that are particularly suited to elementary educators. Please explore the NFB Education page and the NFB Blog for many more films to use in your classes. If you would like to work with other Canadian educators who promote the use of NFB content, then consider applying to be part of the NFB Educator Network.
Private Eyes Ages 6-9
Why is it important to respect individuality and encourage independence?
Topics: Independence, Physical Disabilities, Visual Impairment, Blind, Senses, Braille, Companion Pets, Communication, Confidence, Self-Worth, Challenges, Resourceful
Film Length: 14 minutes 26 seconds
Overdose Ages 6+
How does stress impact your life?
Topics: burnout, stress management
Film Length: 5 minutes 30 seconds
Elbow Room Ages 7+
How can you express your emotions to others?
Topics: conflict resolution, emotion, dialogue, compromise
Film Length: 8 minutes 30 seconds
Big Mouth Ages 8-10
Is telling the truth always the right thing to do?
Topics: Truth, Communication, Social Relationships, Empathy, Unique Character Traits, Differences, Poetry
Film Length: 8 minutes 20 seconds
Star Wars Kid: The Rise of the Digital Shadows Ages 12+
How has the rise of social media and digital technology used entertainment and sensationalism to overshadow responsibility, human dignity and human rights?
Topics: Consent, Social Media, Technology and Innovation, Cyber-bullying, Identity, Self-Esteem, Media Ethics, Privacy, Online Relationships, Digital Environment
In Full Voice Ages 11+ (In French with English subtitles)
How can we deconstruct and disrupt anti-Muslim racism by understanding the specific and diverse experiences of Muslim women?
Topics: Muslim women, Islam, Islamophobia, diversity, identity, religion, gender, spirituality, stereotypes, culture, intersectionality
Film Length: 52 minutes
Warnings: It is important to take a trauma-informed approach to this learning. It is not uncommon for Muslim students to experience Islamophobia in various aspects of their lives. Non-Muslim students may not be aware of the challenges Muslim students face. It will be helpful to inform and prepare Muslim students, with care, that this film may bring up some difficult emotions. It will also be helpful to remind all students of class guidelines and agreements about the discussion of difficult topics.
Hi-Ho Mistahey Ages 12+
Why isn’t the right to a quality education universal in Canada?
Topics: Treaties with First Nations, Indigenous Rights, Oral Promises, Constitutional Rights, Indian Act, Underfunding, Departments of Aboriginal Affairs
Film Length: 1 hour 40 minutes
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