Part 1: Digging In. Part 1: 18 min., 32 sec.

Part 2: Growing Dreams. Part 2: 19 min., 6 sec.

These inspirational videos highlight students from BC, MB and ON working with teachers or parents to naturalize school yards or utilize transformed yards. Although the students are primarily from elementary schools, some high school students are included. All information in both videos is conveyed through student comments which were obviously prepared in advance. Students speak clearly, precisely and without hesitation, and, on occasion, they use phrasing more commonly used by teachers. As a result of the format, there is not a strong logical sequence. For example, the idea of creating a pond was discussed at two different times at two different schools in Growing Dreams. However, using student dialogue might result in stronger viewer identification with the presenters and their ideas.

      Digging In demonstrates the desirability of change and the cooperative approach to implementation. It recommends starting small. However, the projects featured are anything but. Vandalism is mentioned; persistence is encouraged. Growing Dreams explores the wide diversity of activities that can naturalize a school yard and reconnect students and nature. The video begins and ends with a student rap. Comic characters, such as worms and ducks, flit across the screen at appropriate times. Both videos were well paced and of high technical quality. The transitions from one school site to the another are smooth. Along with the videos, the manual All Hands in the Dirt was received. This thorough, practical step-by-step guide, which includes many helpful templates, was provided by the Evergreen Project sponsored by Toyota Canada and others. The videos could be used to motivate student involvement in schools starting naturalization projects. Since repeat viewing is unlikely, it is recommended that they be purchased by divisions or department of education libraries where they could be shared among schools.

Recommended.

Joan Simpson is a Winnipeg, MB, teacher-librarian.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

Copyright © the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.

Published by
The Manitoba Library Association
ISSN 1201-9364

TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR THIS ISSUE - May 11, 2001.

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