Changing by the Minute is a unique documentary about a unique school. A special school in New York City works like a modern one-room schoolhouse. Fifth through 8th graders are all members of the same classes, and older students are expected to help instruct younger students.
Unique as well, students choose their own schedules based on their interests within the necessary curriculum. Throughout the documentary, we watch students go about their day-to-day lives at school and gain insight into their relationships and feelings through interviews.
I think Changing by the Minute’s promotional material says it best: “The film showcases the social-emotional development of 10-14-year-olds and provides a jumping-off place for discussions about the complexities of friendship, identity, self-expression, ethics, and practices that foster a sense of belonging.”
While less about the nitty-gritty biology of puberty than other similar materials, Changing by the Minute examines the social development of children in the early stages of puberty. Tweens and teens have long been misunderstood by parents and instructors. This documentary can be a useful supplementary training material for any teacher working with children aged 10 to 14, giving them valuable experience with the thought processes and social quirks of the age group.
Changing by the Minute is also a fascinating look into the processes of running an alternative school. While similar experiments have been done using Montessori and similar methods, the school in Changing by the Minute offers an intimate look into a system that can be easily translated into state standards for high school.
The focus on community and self-determination are valuable insights for any teacher at any grade level. Students may enjoy the perspective of children their age into the complex social changes that happen as children begin puberty. So often, course materials focus on biology and sometimes sex, but Changing by the Minute focuses on 5 through 8th graders’ need for community and peer support. This film would easily fit into middle-school-level collections for teachers. Recommended.
Where does this title belong in library collections?
Changing by the Minute belongs on education documentary shelves.
What type of library would this title best suit?
Middle-school collections for teacher resources and those training teachers would find the best use of this documentary.
> DSL (Digital Site License) for ENTIRE TOOL KIT
Downloadable digital files to host on your school’s own platform in perpetuity. Universities, Colleges — $382 (30% discount off full price $545)
Grade Schools, Community Colleges — $152 (15% discount off $179)
> DVD only (DVD available by Jan 1, 2023)
Universities, Colleges — $545
Grade Schools, Community Colleges — $179
> DSL & DVD (DVD available by Jan 1, 2023)
Universities, Colleges — $645
14-DAY STREAMING LICENSE
class use only, no public screenings
TWO FILMS
Changing By The Minute (62min documentary)
Y’All R Real Ones: Middle School Moments (10min documentary)
6 Discussion Guides
(No bonus clips included)
Universities, Colleges — $199
Grade Schools, Community Colleges — $99
ONE FILM
Changing By The Minute (62min documentary)
3 Discussion Guides
(No bonus clips included)
Universities, Colleges — $179
Grade Schools, Community Colleges — $79