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February 08, 2012
Free Documentary Films
One of the aspects I like best about working with international students - or in international situations - is learning new things and exploring new territory. One way to do it on a budget is with films - especially films online. Free films online are even better. And yes, that means....
...that I have found yet another great resources that students and teachers should love.
It's called Top Documentary Films, and you can see their website here - http://topdocumentaryfilms.com/.
If you peruse the catalog, you will find all kinds of documentaries from biographies to music profiles and travel pieces.
Here's one example; Iran is a nation in the news a lot lately. For an upclose view, check out travel guru Rick Steves' profile of this ancient and fascinating culture here - Feed%3A+TopDocumentaryFilms+(Top+Documentary+Films+-+Watch+Free+Documentaries+Online)&utm_content=FaceBook.
Or have you ever wondered if you have what it takes to be a stand-up comedian? Thanks to this collection, you can take lessons in the privacy of your own home to see if you have what it takes. I highly recommend that all teachers view this one! You can see it here - http://topdocumentaryfilms.com/stand-up-student/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TopDocumentaryFilms+%28Top+Documentary+Films+-+Watch+Free+Documentaries+Online%29&utm_content=FaceBook.
And this collection features one of my favorite video series of all time. Yes, I know it is old and the clothes in particular will seem dated, but for an intriguing overview of the unexpected links of history, you can't beat James Burke's Connections series. You can see it here - http://topdocumentaryfilms.com/james-burke-connections/.
The whole series is 30 45 minute episodes. They would be perfect for a high school class.
You can also find the highly rated Planet Earth BBC series. Right here - http://topdocumentaryfilms.com/planet-earth-the-complete-bbc-series/.
I love the internet, you never know what little piece of information, story or insight you might stumble into. I incorporate my little discoveries in my classes all the time.
Let us know what links or other resources you find useful or encouraging. We are all learning and making new connections all the time. And sharing makes our journey much richer.
About the author of this entry:
Morf has a B.A.from the Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington and an MAT (Master's in Teaching English) from the University of Washington (Seattle). Morf currently teaches English and writing for a local technical/vocational college with many international students. Morf prefers international and independent films, foods he can't pronounce, music no one else likes and unlikely and ridiculous situations.
Posted by mmorf at February 8, 2012 10:18 PM
