In this film review paper 1) choose a film that resonates with topics covered in one of the course modules; and 2) write a critical review of the film that analyzes the main themes, action, and takeaways, intelligently discusses the ways in which the film intersects with course topics, and concludes with a summary that analyzes the value of the film to the social work profession. Students who wish to review a film that is not on the list provided must seek approval from the instructor.
Sample Films
Bratt, P. (2009). La Mission [Film]. 5 Stick Films.
DuVernay, A. (2016). 13th [Film]. Netflix.
Eyre, C. (2003). Edge of America [Film]. FilmRise.
Gonzalez, J. (2013). Harvest of Empire: The Untold Story of Latinos in America [Film]
Jenkins, B. (2016). Moonlight. [Film] Plan B Entertainment.
Newsome, J. (2012). Miss Representation [Film]. Virgil Films.
Peck, R. (2017). I Am Not Your Negro. Magnolia Pictures [Film]
Vilaysack, K. (2018). Origin Story. Siamese Rose. [Film]
Wise, T. (2013). White Like Me: Race, Racism, and White Privilege in America. [Film] Northampton, MA: Media Education Foundation.
Grading Criteria
Your paper will be graded based on following criteria:
Criteria Description
Analysis of main themes, action, and takeaways (75 points) Describe the film, analyze main themes, action, and takeaways. Answer and describe these components of the Culturagram assessment.
Intersection of film with class content (75 points) Makes robust connections to class content. Strong writing throughout.
Value of the film to social work and other audiences (75 points) Shows independent analysis, uses clear examples, and defend reasoning with direct points and persuasive logic
Clarity of Writing (15 points) Excellent use of standard English showing original thought, and proper grammar.
APA Style (10 points) Use APA style
Total (250 points) A quality assignment will meet or exceed all of the above requirements.
Detailed grading rubric can be found below.
Rubric
MSW511:M6:Film Review Paper Rubric
MSW511:M6:Film Review Paper Rubric
Criteria Ratings Pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeAnalysis of main themes, action, and takeaways
75 pts
Highest Level of performance
Clear, concise writing and strong description/analyses.
65 pts
Very Good or High Level of Performance
Writing is solid but description/analysis has gaps
57 pts
Acceptable Level of Performance
Weak writing; analysis is unclear
0 pts
Failing Level of Performance
Poor writing and little if any analysis
75 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeIntersection of film with class content
75 pts
Highest Level of performance
Clear, concise, and specific connections to class content. Strong writing throughout
65 pts
Very Good or High Level of Performance
Solid connections to course content with some gaps in writing and clarity
57 pts
Acceptable Level of Performance
Few connections to course content and writing that is unclear and disorganized
0 pts
Failing Level of Performance
No connections to course content and poor writing throughout
75 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeValue of the film to social work and other audiences
75 pts
Highest Level of performance
Shows independent analysis, uses clear examples, and defend reasoning with direct points and persuasive logic
65 pts
Very Good or High Level of Performance
Writing and analysis is solid but connection to SW students/profession has gaps
57 pts
Acceptable Level of Performance
Little effort made to connect value of film to SW students/profession. Writing is incomplete or unclear
0 pts
Failing Level of Performance
No effort made to connect value of film to SW. Writing is poor throughout
75 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeClarity of Writing
15 pts
Highest Level of performance
Excellent use of standard English showing original thought. No spelling or grammar errors. Well organized with proper flow of meaning.
13 pts
Very Good or High Level of Performance
Good evidence of own expression and competent use of language. Limited number of spelling or grammar errors. Well organized thoughts and concepts.
11 pts
Acceptable Level of Performance
Some evidence of own expression and competent use of language. Four or more spelling or grammar errors. Inconsistencies in thoughts and concepts.
0 pts
Failing Level of Performance
Language needs significant development. Numerous spelling and/or grammar errors; fails to have organized thoughts and concepts.
15 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeAPA Style
10 pts
Highest Level of performance
APA format correct with no more than 1-2 minor errors.
8 pts
Very Good or High Level of Performance
3-5 errors in APA format and/or 1-2 citations are missing.
7 pts
Acceptable Level of Performance
APA formatting contains multiple errors and/or several citations are missing.
0 pts
Failing Level of Performance
APA formatting not present and citations are not included.
10 pts
