A Crack in the Pavement 2000
Distributed by Bullfrog Films, PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547; 800-543-FROG (3764)
Produced by the National Film Board of Canada
Directed by Dan Bessie
VHS, color, 2 videos, 19 min. each
Jr. High - Adult
Education, Environmental Studies
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Rue Herbert, Head, Library Media Resources, University of South Florida, TampaThe two-part series A Crack in the Pavement examines efforts made by a variety of Canadian students to green their school grounds. The programs are directed toward children and early adolescents. Colorful and energetic, the videos are produced to look as though they were created by the participating children, which gives the programs a somewhat informal appearance.
“Growing Dreams” provides an overview of school grounds greening, primarily through comments made by the students involved. Topics include the development of ‘gardens’ vs. ‘forests’, wildflowers, greenhouses, the addition of chickens and butterflies, and even the use of natural and man-made ponds and streams. In addition to the obvious topic of environmentalism, the students also discuss teamwork and expanded hope of a better school community to work and play in.
“Digging In” follows one school’s efforts to green their grounds. They receive advice and encouragement from several other schools that have had successful greening projects. Once again topics go beyond the immediate areas of flora and fauna to include partnering between schools and communities, the benefits of learning by doing, as well as dealing with the disappointment of vandalism and the need for positive thinking.
These are not so much “how to” videos, but “see what is possible” programs. Viewing them should provide inspiration to students, teachers, parents and community members. Although it is produced entirely in Canada, the ideas put forth are not limited to that geographic area. Both videos have activity/resource inserts, and a study guide is available. An interesting aspect of both programs was the level of involvement of children of all ages. This reviewer couldn’t help wondering about the potential consequences of a five year old wielding a full size rake in a public school yard in the United States.
As mentioned earlier, while the standards of production are high, at times the creative emphasis on children creates an almost purposeful amateurishness. Both titles provide positive messages and solid information, and could be used with students ranging from kindergarten through high school. The series could also offer valuable viewing to community service organizations. While I recommend the content of the programs, the $250 cost for the two-part series seems high given the length and depth of the individual videos. The series is also available for rental at $60 a set and $40 each title.
Recommended