1. Learn about genres.
2. Take a fresh look at movies you already know and see them academically.
3. Improve your writing skills.

1. Read below for an introduction to genres.
2. For each genre, create a web with the genre in a circle in the middle and webs or branches going out that show the elements you’d expect to find in that genre.
3. For each genre, compile a list of 5 — 10 movies that are good examples of the elements in the genre.
4. Read below for an overview of story lines. Add at least 5 story lines to each genre web.
5. Think of one of your favorite films. Rewatch it and complete the movie worksheets. Decide what genre it represents and how it tells that story.
6. Write a 3 — 5 page paper explaining why you like the movie and how it is a typical (or not typical) example of its genre. Use details that show your growth as a film and story critic as you write about this familiar film.

• Webs of genre elements
• Film list for each genre
• Typical story line for each genre
• Favorite film paper

A GENRE is formed when a type of film or book (or music) has certain elements that become essential to that type of film or book (or music). You probably know which genres of music you really like and which are not your favorite. Radio stations usually only play one genre to attract those listeners (country, rock, alternative, classic, etc.). There are genres for stories that are told in print and on film:

For example, in a HORROR film you’d expect innocent victims, dark and shadowy images, creepy music, surprises, blood and screaming, etc. Those words would be the branches on your web for "Horror."

In your list of Horror movies you might include films like Scream, The Village, Sixth Sense, etc.

There are typical STORY LINES for each genre. Although every film is different, film makers tend to include elements that the audience expects so the audience is not let down by the film. Story lines are what you expect to happen in the film genres. Think of your example movie list and brainstorm the typical story lines for the genres.

For example, ROMANCE films might be about the unpopular girl who "transforms" into a beauty when she falls for the prince/football star/etc. Another story line would be an accidental meeting between people from different parts of society (rich/poor, college/drop out, famous/a nobody) and they are instantly attracted to each other. They spend the rest of the movie overcoming the odds against their love.