Exploring what students can learn and experience in this new class

This year, VHS has introduced a new class: Spanish film studies. This is a class that VHS has never had, the closest VHS has gotten to a Spanish film studies class is the VHS film club. Alberto Ortiz said, “Throughout the year, students will build skills in analyzing movies, thinking critically, doing research and expressing themselves in Spanish. They’ll also have the chance to get better at working in groups, seeing things from different points of view and making connections between history, culture and art. Finally, students will have the opportunity to create their own short film to create awareness of a topic that they feel covers a community issue.” This class takes place during the fifth period in room 121. Ortiz’s class offers an experience for VHS students to learn Spanish with films. 

Avery McKenzie ‘27 said, “I decided to join because I love movies and I wanted to be able to dive deeper and analyze them from different perspectives.”

After they watch films, students do an analysis on the movie and then write an essay. When they watch movies in Spanish, they do activities related to the movies they watch and discuss and debate about the films. Other times they write from another character’s point of view or make visual projects. Ortiz said, “I did create this class and I was inspired by how much film can open doors into culture, history, and language. Movies are one of the most engaging ways to explore big questions and connect with real voices, so I wanted to build a class where students could learn Spanish while also experiencing powerful storytelling.”

The most recent film they have watched is “Under the Same Moon” by Patricia Riggen. McKenzie said, “I really enjoyed [Under the Same Moon]. I don’t think I would’ve watched it if it hadn’t been for the class so I’m glad we did.” This film is about a single mother who leaves her son with his grandmother, when his mother passes away the boy begins the journey to find his mother. Another part of the class is the community. McKenzie said, “My favorite part of the class is the community. A lot of the activities are class activities and it’s fun to get to know new people.”