This lesson plan is designed to help students learn the skills required to create compelling, in-depth and informative news documentaries.
It’s based on the article ‘How to make a documentary‘, which we recommend trainers read before adapting the lesson outline below for your own purposes.
Sessions timetable
09:00–10:00 – Session 1: Defining the documentary and the core idea.
- Aims: To understand what distinguishes a documentary from news reporting and to identify a strong, viable subject.
- Presentation: Discuss the definition of a documentary as an in-depth look at a subject, person, or issue. Cover the Four Ps: people, place, plot, and purpose.
- Activity: Participants brainstorm three potential documentary ideas based on their local community or a current social issue.
- Discussion points: What makes a story documentary-worthy rather than just a news package? How does the Purpose drive the narrative?
10:00–11:00 – Session 2: Research and the pre-production phase.
- Aims: To learn the importance of thorough background checks and logistical planning.
- Presentation: Focus on identifying key characters, finding the voice of the film, and the necessity of preliminary interviews. Explain the importance of a site survey.
- Activity: In groups, take one idea from Session 1 and list the primary characters needed and the specific locations required for filming.
- Discussion points: Why is it dangerous to start filming without a plan? How do you handle a situation where a key contributor pulls out?
11:00–11:15 – Break
11:15–12:45 – Session 3: Developing the treatment and script.
- Aims: To transform research into a narrative structure.
- Presentation: Explain how to write a treatment (the story summary) and a shooting script. Discuss A-roll (interviews and narrative) vs B-roll (supporting footage).
- Activity: Participants write a one-page treatment for their documentary, including a hook, a middle conflict, and a potential resolution.
- Discussion points: Is it ethical to script a documentary? How do we balance a planned narrative with the unpredictable nature of real life?
12:45–13:45 – Lunch
13:45–15:00 – Session 4: Visual storytelling and interview techniques.
- Aims: To master the technical and interpersonal skills required for high-quality production.
- Presentation: Cover framing, lighting, and sound quality. Discuss interview styles: making the subject feel comfortable and asking open-ended questions.
- Activity: Practical role-play. One student interviews another about a personal experience while a third person directs the shot framing.
- Discussion points: How does the choice of background affect the audience’s perception of the interviewee? What are the signs of a bad interview?
15:00–15:15 – Break
15:15–16:15 – Session 5: The ethics of documentary filmmaking.
- Aims: To navigate the legal and moral responsibilities of the filmmaker.
- Presentation: Discuss informed consent, protecting vulnerable sources, and maintaining editorial integrity. Explain the concept of the director’s cut versus the truth.
- Activity: Review a series of ethical dilemmas (for example, a source asking to be paid, or a source wanting to delete an interview) and decide on a course of action.
- Discussion points: Where is the line between creative storytelling and manipulation? How do we ensure the subject is not harmed by the film?
16:15–17:00 – Session 6: Post-production and the final edit.
- Aims: To understand how the story is truly made in the edit suite.
- Presentation: Discuss logging footage, the rough cut, and the importance of pacing. Explain how music and graphics should support, not distract from, the story.
- Activity: Participants create a paper edit – arranging their interview quotes and B-roll descriptions in a logical sequence based on their treatment.
- Discussion points: How can editing change the meaning of a person’s words? What is the golden rule of the final review?
Assignment
Participants are required to produce a three-minute documentary taster reel. This must include at least one interview, relevant B-roll, and a clear narrative arc. This should be accompanied by a written 500-word production diary detailing the ethical choices made during the process.
Materials needed
- Handouts of the MHM How to make a documentary guide.
- Cameras or smartphones with high-quality video capability.
- External microphones and tripods.
- Notepads and pens for storyboarding.
- Laptops with basic editing software.
Assessment
- Participation: Engagement in group discussions and role-play activities.
- Performance: Ability to translate a concept into a structured treatment.
- Technical aApplication: Demonstrated understanding of framing and sound in the practical activity.
- Ethics: Ability to identify and address potential editorial risks.
Summary
This lesson plan provides a comprehensive overview of the documentary filmmaking process, from the initial spark of an idea through to the complexities of the edit suite. It emphasises the Four Ps and the ethical responsibility of the filmmaker. By the end of this training, participants will have the foundational skills to plan, shoot, and structure a compelling factual narrative.
Related article
