LESSONSÂ COME TO LIFE:
4 Animated Examples Worth Watching
If you've been with me for a while, you might be familiar with our game design program, or at the very least, my unique approach to teaching coding through animation. Initially designed to engage and captivate my own students, these animated lessons have evolved far beyond my classroom walls. Today, they empower thousands of educators worldwide, helping them introduce coding to their own students.
But the magic of animated lessons isn't confined to coding alone. Ever considered how they might enrich other subjects?
Join me as we explore four diverse examples of animated lessons across disciplines. From the nuanced world of grammar to the exploratory universe of science, from geometry's meticulous nature to the creativity of game design, get ready for a masterclass in animated education.
Before we dive in, understand that this showcase isn't just about displaying variety. My goal is to highlight what makes an animated lesson truly exceptional and ignite your passion even further. As we explore each lesson, focus on the elements I emphasize in the introductions. By doing this, you'll gain insight into the defining characteristics of a standout animated lesson. Ready to begin?
EXAMPLE 1
An Animated Lesson on Photosynthesis
Our first example is particularly close to my heart. While science wasn't my favorite subject in school, I truly believe lessons like the one you're about to see could have sparked a genuine passion within me.
As you watch this lesson, notice how visual aids serve multiple purposes: they elucidate concepts, direct attention, and provide relief from dense text. Observe the consistent color palette and the thoughtful balance between imagery and text. These nuanced touches foster a seamless learning experience. Particularly worth noting is the fluidity of scene transitions. You'll see that many visual elements transition smoothly from one scene to the next, tying the content together into a cohesive narrative.
While watching, imagine yourself teaching this lesson live. Keep in mind, there's no audio in this video. Instead of simply playing a video for your class, here, you become the maestro, guiding students through the content with the aid of the animated tutorial. This format allows you to remain attuned to your students' comprehension, adjusting the pace as needed, ensuring everyone is fully engaged in the learning adventure.
EXAMPLE 2
An Animated Lesson on Prepositions
In this next example, drawn from a grammar lesson on prepositions, you'll see echoes of the techniques highlighted in our previous example. Notice the harmonious use of colors, the well-measured balance of imagery and text, and the way visual elements transition from one scene to the next, weaving a cohesive learning narrative.
This lesson effectively demonstrates how zoom-ins, color shifts, and highlighting can mimic the act of pointing or emphasizing. As you watch this lesson, try to pay close attention to how these techniques serve as the digital equivalent to a teacher's guiding hand, gently directing students' focus to where it's needed most.
EXAMPLE 3
An Animated Lesson on Triangles
Geometry always held a special place in my heart. I can vividly recall diving into the topic we're about to explore in 5th grade and relishing every moment. However, learning is a personal journey, and it varies for everyone. I remember assisting a friend who struggled with this very unit. During our one-on-one sessions, I could pinpoint exactly where she stumbled and needed reinforcement. In a classroom setting, tracking the understanding of 30 students, especially on a complex subject like triangles, can be a daunting task. But with this animated visual aid, you're empowered. It not only enhances the lesson but also allows you to modulate its pace, ensuring you're attuned to every student's progress.
EXAMPLE 4
An Animated Lesson on Game Design
In our concluding lesson, we venture into the realm of game design, specifically teaching students how to code a character's jump onto a platform. Conventionally, instructors would either project their screen to illustrate the building process or commence with a conceptual overview before demonstrating. But with the animated lesson you're about to experience, these approaches are seamlessly blended. It intertwines the 'why' with the 'how,' providing an integrated learning experience. As with our previous examples, this format doesn't just elucidate the concept; it liberates teachers to keenly observe and engage with students, ensuring a thorough grasp of the material.
Animating the Future of Education
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As we wrap up this animated journey, I hope you've been as inspired as I am by the vast potential of animated lessons. Whether it's the intricacies of grammar or the captivating world of game design, it's evident that animation can breathe new life into any discipline. The key lies in harnessing this tool's power to simplify, captivate, and engage, enhancing the learning experience in truly transformative ways.
If you're eager to bring animation into your teaching but aren't sure where to start, I have a solution for you. Join the waitlist for our 5-day "Animate Your Lessons" challenge. It's designed to guide educators like you through the steps to animate their own lessons effectively.
Remember, a standout animated lesson isn't just about flashy visualsâit's about crafting a narrative that resonates, enlightens, and empowers. And as educators, we are uniquely positioned to do just that. I urge you to consider the potential of animated lessons in your domain and to embark on your own journey of animated instruction. The future of education is bright, dynamic, and animated. Let's shape it together!