In this course, students will explore and master the art and craft of cinematic storytelling, discovering the intricate ways in which audio and visual elements converge to create compelling narratives.  Using state-of-the-art equipment, students will create captivating films with strong narrative impacts.

Prerequisite: Creative Digital Media. Students who take Creative Digital Media and Cinematic Storytelling are eligible for the Option 2 experience with LDTV.  *Offered as RCBC CAP Course.

In addition to the course, students will be able to work with Cherokee Digital Media, the Cherokee network station, and LDTV, the Lenape District network station. Cherokee Digital Media is a club that students can participate in, or collaborate with, to film events such as awards ceremonies held at Cherokee. LDTV films many productions for the district, but we work closely with them to film select varsity sports each season. While LDTV films at four schools, we suggest students choose events held at Cherokee. 

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Cinematic Storytelling fulfills the following graduation requirements:

• Visual/Performing Arts

• 21st Century Life and Careers or Career Technical Education

This course will be available for the 2025-2026 school year.

RCBC CAP INFORMATION

Cinematic Storytelling is eligible for college credits through the Rowan College at Burlington County College Accelerated Program. Students must apply for the CAP program while enrolled in the course by the deadline. Students must earn a C average or better in the course to receive the credits through the program.

Registration Information

Cinematic Storytelling

7 Credits - Equivalent to ETV 102 (4 Credits) & ETC205 (3 Credits)

Assignments - 40%

Assignments are designed to help students strengthen specific technical and storytelling skills before applying them to larger projects.

Projects & Quizzes - 30%

Projects are the foundation of Cinematic Storytelling and may include narrative short films, experimental projects, or documentary pieces. Students will be graded on artistic vision, technical accuracy, and the ability to tell an engaging story through visuals, sound, and editing. These projects are designed to challenge students to bring their creative ideas to life while demonstrating professional filmmaking practices.

Participation & Collaboration - 20%

Filmmaking is a collaborative process, and this portion of the grade emphasizes active teamwork, engagement in peer critiques, and professionalism on set. Students are expected to take responsibility for their assigned roles, communicate effectively, and make positive contributions to the group's success.

Reflection & Self-Assessment  - 10%

Reflection encourages students to think critically about their work as filmmakers. Students will analyze their creative choices, identify successes and challenges, and evaluate how effectively their stories were communicated. This process helps students grow as visual storytellers and refine their artistic voices.

Extra Credit & Community Service Hours

Students can earn credit by working on the production crew for a Cherokee Digital Media or LDTV Sports event at Cherokee.  To earn the credit, students must sign up in advance for the event, arrive at crew call, effectively work their crew position, and stay through the completion of the event, which includes the breaking down of the equipment.  Students can also create broadcast-quality content for Cherokee Digital Media and LDTV.  Students may opt for extra credit or community service hours when signing up for events.