STANDARDS

Lexile: 1020L

Core Art Standards:

VA1: Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work.

VA5: Develop and refine artistic techniques and work for presentation.

VA8: Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work.

CCSS Anchor Standards:

R2: Determine central themes and summarize.

R3: Analyze ideas and sequence events.

R9: Analyze two or more texts on similar topics.

Objective: Students will learn how new technology has transformed entertainment.

Essential Question: What methods and processes are considered when preparing artwork for presentation or preservation?

Enduring Understanding: Artists and others consider a variety of factors and methods, including evolving technologies, when preparing and refining artwork for display.

Vocabulary: backgrounds, green screen, hemispherical, reflects, video game engine

Materials: Computer or interactive whiteboard, “Graphic Organizer: Animation” skills sheets from Lesson Plans 1 and 2.

Lesson: Alien Worlds via Visual Effects

Use with pages 10-11.

Objective: Students will learn how new technology has transformed entertainment.

PREPARATION:

Review students’ notes from their “Graphic Organizer: Animation” skills sheets.

PROCEDURE:

1. Divide students into groups or pairs. Have the groups read “Alien Worlds via Visual Effects.” Ask students to observe the images in the article closely.

2. When students finish reading, ask: What techniques do animators use to make The Mandalorian? (Animators use a hemispherical space covered in LED screens, called the Volume, to display animated backgrounds. They then use a video game engine to create the illusion of movement.)

3. Lead a discussion about the Volume and how it works to ensure understanding. Ask: How has this technology transformed entertainment? (Answers will vary but should note that it saves time and money.)

4. Invite students to record their findings in their “Graphic Organizer: Animation” skills sheets.

DISCUSSION:

Compare the ways in which animators create settings for The Mandalorian and Luca (pages 6-9). (Answers will vary but should mention that artists for both projects take inspiration from real places and make models and set pieces.)
Observe the image of the Mandalorian’s armor reflecting light. How is this effect different from the lighting in Toy Story on pages 4-5 and Luca on pages 6-9? (The Mandalorian’s armor reflects light naturally because of the projected light from the LED screens. For Toy Story and Luca, artists had to carefully add light effects as part of the animation process.)

REMOTE LEARNING:

The Mandalorian takes place in outer space, where it’s impossible to film a TV show. In what other contexts might the Volume be useful? Sketch a design for a setting that could be filmed in the Volume. Add notes explaining why the Volume is a more practical place to film than the real location.