Media Adaptations of Children’s Literature
EECE 441
Spring 2003
P. Werre
Components of Media Evaluation
1. Format: Is the book one that is suitable for the format whether it is film, video, or tape? Is the story one that is suited for media adaptation?
2. Content: The media adaptation doesn’t have to faithful to the book in all aspects. A video which cuts out parts of the book, or has a different ending is not necessarily a poor video. If the media adaptation differs from the book, it is important to ask how it differs, whether this difference is appropriate, and whether it follows the author’s intent.
3. Technical aspects: A good production will have good technical quality. The sound and picture are clear, and the picture is in focus. Special effects are included for a valuable reason. The pace of the film keeps the story moving, the music is appropriate and not distracting.
Evaluation of Media Adaptations of Children’s Literature
The media (video, film, tape, dvd) adaptation:
· Is in harmony, but not necessarily identical, with the content, style, and mood of the book.
· Does not change the original meaning, themes, or main points of the book.
· Is interesting, well presented, tastefully used, and skillfully produced.
· Will fix the child’s impressions of the story and artwork included in the book.
· Will take the reader beyond the book.
· Will motivate the child to read the book.
Glantz, Shelley, and Jane M. Ruddock. “Making the Words Move: Extending the Reading Experience with Video in the School Library and the Classroom.” The Antic Art: Enhancing Children’s Literary Experiences Through Film and Video. Ed. Lucy Rollin. Fort Atkinson, WI: Highsmith, 1993. 183-193.
Norton, Donna E. and Saundra E. Norton. Instructors Resource Manual to Accompany Through the Eyes of a Child: An Introduction to Children’s Literature. 6th ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Merrill Prentice Hall, 2003.
4/30/03
Visual Literacy and Media Evaluation