Schedule: 
 
Zoom Live Meetings: Tuesdays @ 10am - February 3rd - March 31st (Orientation meeting January 27th)
 
This class is designed  for learners ages 11-15
 
Behind the Scene is a unique online course designed for young creators and learners who want to master the "hidden" language of communication. In this class, we use the world of wordless animation (short films) as our laboratory. By stripping away dialogue, we allow learners to focus on the pure sensory data that tells a story: facial expressions, body language, colors, textures, and soundscapes.
​
For many learners, real-life social interactions can feel like they are moving at 100 mph. This class provides a "pause button." We break down visual stories frame-by-frame to understand:
​
The "Why" Behind the "How": How a creator uses jagged lines or somber music to signal a character’s intent.
​
The Spectrum of Interpretation: We discuss our different takes on the same scene, proving that there isn't always one "right" answer—and that’s okay!
​
The Roots of Miscommunication: By seeing how people can view the same clip differently, students learn to identify potential misunderstandings before they happen.
​
Self-Advocacy: We turn our observations into tools for real-life clarity, helping students learn to ask, "I noticed X, did you mean Y?"
​
Each module is designed to be interactive, affirming, and hands-on:
​
1. Asynchronous Work: Each week learners will have a module in their online classroom with their assignment for the week. For this course, it includes a short film (usually under 10 minutes long), 3 questions, and they will have a Creative Reflection Project. These projects serve as the start of a "Director’s Portfolio", a collection of work that shows they understand the psychology behind visual storytelling. Estimated time spent on their module for the week should be 1-2 hours of self paced learning. 
 
2. Live Meetings: Together, we’ll rewatch the short film and explore different perspectives as we go through the assignment questions. Learners can also share their projects here if they’d like. As the course progresses, discussions will become more debate-style, building a strong foundation for the next class, Mastering the Art of Argument, which starts right after this one. You can sign up for that class here. 
​​
Perfect for: Aspiring animators, filmmakers, artists, and any learner looking to build confidence in navigating social and environmental cues in a fun, low-pressure way.
​​
There is also a completley asynchronous option for those who can not make the live class. Learners will still recieve feedback on their submissions, all projects can be sent in digitally via photo if not already digital. You can find the asynchronous only course listing here.
​
 
$120 for 9 week Course (13.33/class)
 
When you purchase this course you will recieve an instant downlod with your next steps to login. If you have any questions you can also reach out to me directly at hello@raisingbrain.org