Visual Storytelling

Tip

Where communication trumps drawing skills

Did you know that a good storyboard artist doesn’t need to be great at drawing?

To be a good storyboard artist, you need to know how to effectively communicate with your storyboard.

It's important to learn storyboarding fundamentals, including visual storytelling concepts, staging and composition, clear labelling, and how to achieve continuity.

Important

Use the Film Techniques worksheet

In this subtopic, you’ll practise three learning tasks:

• Identify three types of shots.
• Identify camera movements in a sequence from A Bug's Life.
• Identify compositional techniques used in three shots.

Note: You only need to post to Forum: Visual Storytelling once by using the same worksheet for all three tasks. Just follow these three steps:

1. Download this Film Techniques worksheet.
2. As you work through each learning task, record your findings in the corresponding section of the worksheet – don’t forget to save to your device as you go!
3. After completing all learning tasks, upload your completed worksheet to Forum: Visual Storytelling for feedback.

You’ll get a reminder to use the worksheet in each learning task within this subtopic.

Practice

Task 1: Identify three types of shots

Knowing how to use different types of shots in your storyboards helps you enhance your storytelling. Can you identify the three shots below and explain their use in their films?

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

• Make sure you have access to the Film Techniques worksheet. 
• Swipe through these three images to help you complete this learning task:

What steps should you take to complete this task?

30 minutes

Set aside up to 30 minutes to complete steps 1-4 below. Remember to save your work as you go when using Word.

1. Download the Film Techniques worksheet. 
2. Examine each of the three shots above.
3. Record in the corresponding worksheet section the following information:
   1. Identify the shot types (think about camera angles as well).
   2. Explain briefly why you think the shot types were used.
4. Make any required updates to your Film Techniques worksheet and save to your device.

What should you do after completing this task?

Think about how shot types contribute to a scene's mood and reveal character details. How might using different shot types alter a viewer's perception and a scene's impact?

Now that you’re familiar with basic shot types and angles, it's time to explore how camera movements like pans and trucks enhance visual storytelling and add dynamism and depth to a scene.

Important

Camera jargon

The terminology used in animation for some camera movements below differs from that used in live-action filmmaking.

Practice

Task 2: Identify camera movements from A Bug's Life

Understanding how different camera movements are used in film deepens your comprehension of visual storytelling. Can you identify specific camera movements in the A Bug's Life sequence below?

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

• Your saved Film Techniques worksheet.
• Swipe through these five images to help you complete this learning task:

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 30 minutes

Set aside up to 30 minutes to complete steps 1-6 below. Remember to save your work as you go when using Word.

1. Open your Films Techniques worksheet.
2. Watch the short video (1:20m) above, which shows a sequence from A Bug’s Life.
3. Rewatch the video and observe camera movements – such as pans, truck ins, or truck outs – used in the film sequence. 
4. Identify up to five specific camera movements used in the film sequence, as described in the five shots above.
5. Record these five camera movements in the corresponding worksheet section.
6. Make any required updates to your Film Techniques worksheet and save to your device.

What should you do after completing this task?

Consider how camera movements contribute to the sequence’s mood and enhance storytelling. How can you use various camera movements in your storyboard to plan and influence a viewer’s experience?

When you’re ready, move on to the next two sections, Transitions and Composition, where you’ll explore creative ways to transition between scenes and how compositional techniques enhance visual storytelling.

Practice

Task 3: Identify composition techniques used in three shots

Knowing about the composition techniques used by filmmakers can help your process of creating visually interesting storyboards. Can you identify the key composition techniques used in the three shots below?

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

• Your saved Film Techniques worksheet.
• Swipe through these three images to help you complete this learning task: 

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 15-20 minutes

Set aside up to 20 minutes to complete steps 1-4 below. Remember to save your work as you go when using Word. 

1. Examine each of the three shots above.
2. Identify the key composition techniques used in each shot.
3. Record these key composition techniques in the corresponding worksheet section.
4. Make any required updates to your Film Techniques worksheet and save to your device.

What should you do after completing this task?

1. Reflect on how different composition techniques guide the viewer's attention and contribute to the storytelling. How might using different composition techniques enhance your storyboarding?
2. Share your Film Techniques worksheet to Forum:
   1. Select your forum thread in Forum: Visual Storytelling - remember to create your thread if you have not already done so.
   2. Select Reply to your first Forum post.
   3. Enter the words ‘Task 3: Film Techniques’ in your reply.
   4. Select the Post your response button, then select Edit in your new reply when it shows up.
   5. Upload your worksheet using the Attachment field.
   6. Select Save changes to share your coursework to your forum thread.
3. Get feedback on this and the previous two learning tasks at the next Live Session – check the Live Session calendar for dates and times.

Take a breather and then move to the next subtopic, Film Influences and Film Study, where you can identify your film influences and gear up to practice a key assessment task – writing a film study!

Important

Use the Film Influences worksheet

In this section, you’ll practise three learning tasks:

• Create a list of your ten favourite films.
• Create a reference board of key shots from two favourite sequences.
• Explain aspects of key shots from your reference boards.

Note: You only need to post to Forum: Visual Storytelling once by using the same worksheet for all three tasks. Just follow these three steps:

1. Download this Film Influences worksheet.
2. As you work through each learning task, record your findings in the corresponding section of the worksheet – don’t forget to save to your device as you go!
3. After completing all learning tasks, upload your completed worksheet to Forum: Visual Storytelling for feedback.

You’ll get a reminder to use the worksheet in each learning task within the Film Influences section.

Practice

Task 4: Create a list of your ten favourite films 

Do you feel a personal connection to films you’ve watched and enjoyed? Knowing your own preferences and tastes helps you approach visual storytelling with a more personal and critical perspective.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

• Make sure you have access to the Film Influences worksheet.

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 15-20 minutes

Set aside up to 20 minutes to complete steps 1-3 below. Remember to save your work as you go when using Word.

1. Download the Film Influences worksheet. 
2. List in the corresponding worksheet section your ten favourite films (animated or live action).
3. Make any required updates to your Film Influences worksheet and save to your device.

What should you do after completing this task?

Great work on identifying your top ten favourite films. Now it’s time to zoom in on specific film sequences from your list.

Reflection

From rebels to raiders

Think again about the ten films you listed in the previous learning task.

In those films, are there any specific sequences or shots that you really like or that influence you more than others?

An animation tutor at Yoobee shared two of their favourite sequences, from The Empire Strikes Back and Raiders of the Lost Ark (both films by Lucasfilm Ltd.) and provided reasons why the sequences stood out.

Swipe through both sequences (eight shots each) and read the tutor’s comments.

Practice

Task 5: Create a reference board of key shots from two favourite sequences

Identifying and isolating key shots within film sequences can help you focus on visual storytelling and film techniques that make those shots memorable. Starting with sequences, which stand out to you as a viewer?

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

• Your saved Film Influences worksheet.

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 30 minutes

Set aside up to 30 minutes to complete steps 1-4 below. Remember to save your work as you go when using Word.

1. Open your Films Influences worksheet.
2. Select a favourite sequence from each of the two films in your top ten list.
3. Create a reference board of key shots using the corresponding worksheet section:  
   • Your reference board should have approximately 6-8 shots per sequence (i.e. 12-16 shots across two sequences in total).
   • Keep the shots in chronological order.
4. Make any required updates to your Film Influences worksheet and save to your device.

What should you do after completing this task?

Now that you've selected your two sequences and created a reference board, it’s time to delve deeper into the individual key shots that impact you as a viewer. 

Practice

Task 6: Explain aspects of key shots from your reference boards

Have you ever tried to explain to someone else why key shots in a film sequence appeal to you as a viewer or why they're so effective? It's a skill that will come in handy when you practice writing a film study, which is the focus of the next section in this Film Influences and Film Study topic.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

• Your saved Film Influences worksheet.

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 1 Hour

Set aside one hour to complete steps 1-5 below. Remember to save your work as you go when using Word.

1. Revisit the What are your favourite shots? section above.
2. Open your Films Influences worksheet.
3. List a key aspect (i.e. a film technique or a visual element) that stands out to you in each shot on your reference board.
4. Write 1-2 sentences for each aspect you have listed, explaining why you think it makes the shot effective in telling the story.
5. Make any required updates to your Film Influences worksheet and save to your device.

What should you do after completing this task?

1. Reflect on how identifying and explaining the aspects of key shots has enhanced your understanding of visual storytelling. How has it improved your ability to break down film sequences and articulate your observations?
2. Share your Film Influences worksheet to Forum:
   1. Select your forum thread in Forum: Visual Storytelling. 
   2. Select Reply to your first Forum post.
   3. Enter the words ‘Task 6: Film Influences’ in your reply.
   4. Select the Post your response button, then select Edit in your new reply when it shows up.
   5. Upload your worksheet using the Attachment field.
   6. Select Save changes to share your coursework to your forum thread.
3. Get feedback on this and the previous two learning tasks at the next Live Session – check the Live Session calendar for dates and times.

In this Film Influences section, you’ve identified your own film preferences and explained how key shots in your favourite film sequences impact you as a viewer. Get ready to dissect film techniques and visual elements even more in the next step of your visual storytelling journey -  Film Study.

Important

Gearing up for your assessment tasks

Your first task assessment for this module involves you writing and submitting a film study for a film sequence that has had an influence on you.

In this section, you’ll find seven steps designed to guide you through the process of writing a compelling film study. You'll also encounter five learning tasks to help you practise these steps, using as a case study the animated film Brave.

As you work through each step, remember that writing a film study goes beyond merely dissecting scenes—it's your chance to demonstrate your understanding of visual storytelling techniques. From watching the film to checking your writing, each step plays a vital role in writing an insightful film study.

Practice

Task 7: List your observations from the opening sequence of Brave

Practice the initial step in writing a film study by carefully observing and documenting the visual elements and film techniques used in the opening sequence of Brave. 

This learning task will help you understand how these elements contribute to storytelling and set the stage for your Brave film study.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

Make sure you have access to:

• the Brave opening sequence (3:18m): Brave Opening Scene (youtube.com)
• an application like Microsoft Word or a similar note-taking app to document your observations.

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 15-20 minutes

Set aside 20 minutes to complete steps 1-4 below. Remember to save your work as you go when using your note-taking app.

1. Watch the opening sequence of Brave and actively take notice of the visual and cinematic elements presented.
2. List its visual elements:
   1. Observe the cultural setting:
      1. What do you notice about the cultural setting?
      2. How do the characters interact with their environment?
      3. Document specific details such as costumes, architecture, and societal norms.
   2. Consider the historical setting:
      1. What do you notice about the historical setting?
      2. How does the time period influence the story?
      3. Record examples of technologies, tools, and living conditions shown in the sequence.
3. Identify film techniques:
   1. Pay attention to the types of shots and camera movements:
      1. What film techniques are used?
      2. How do these techniques help tell the story?
      3. Note specific examples of shot types (e.g., close-ups, medium shots, wide shots) and camera movements (e.g., pans, tilts, zooms) and consider their purpose in the narrative.
   2. Observe the composition and transitions:
      1. What do you notice about the composition and framing of shots?
      2. What types of transitions are used?
      3. List examples of composition techniques (e.g., rule of thirds, leading lines) and transitions (e.g., cuts, fades, dissolves).
4. Organise and save your list of observations into clear categories (e.g., cultural setting, historical setting, shot types, camera movements, composition, transitions).

What should you do after completing this task?

Think about how the visual elements and film techniques in the opening sequence of Brave contribute to your understanding of the sequence’s setting and characters. In what ways do your observed film techniques enhance or detract from the narrative being told?

Use your observations as a foundation for the next steps in drafting your film study of Brave, the next of which is writing the introduction. 

Practice

Task 8: Write an introduction for your Brave film study

Use your observation lists created in the previous learning task to write an engaging introduction for your film study of Brave. 

By summarising key details about the film sequence and weaving them together, you’ll introduce the film's context, storyline, and visual elements to hook your reader.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

Make sure you have access to:

• your list of observations of the opening sequence of Brave.
• an application like Microsoft Word or a similar word-processing app to draft your film study.

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 30 minutes

Set aside 30 minutes to complete steps 1-4 below. Remember to save your work as you go when using your word-processing app.

1. List key details about the film sequence, including:
   1. Film title
   2. Production company
   3. Year of release
   4. Director
2. Write a concise story synopsis (a brief outline) in your own words using your list of observations, covering the world, setting, and characters depicted in the sequence.
3. Use the key details and your short synopsis to write a basic introduction of 2-3 sentences that:
   1. Introduces the film title, production company, year of release, and director to establish context.
   2. Provides a concise overview of the sequence’s storyline, offering insight into the world, setting, and characters portrayed in the sequence.
4. Save your draft: Choose a clear and descriptive filename for your document, such as ‘Brave_Film_Study’.

What should you do after completing this task?

How successfully does your introduction encapsulate the essence of the Brave film sequence and engage the reader’s curiosity to explore your film study further? What adjustments could enhance the clarity and appeal of your introduction?

When you’re ready, use your introduction as a springboard for the next step of writing paragraphs on film techniques and visual elements for your Brave film study.

Practice

Task 9: Write paragraphs on film techniques and visual elements for your Brave film study

Expand upon your observations from the previous two learning tasks and delve deeper into your breakdown of film techniques and visual elements in the Brave film sequence. 

By crafting several descriptive paragraphs, you’ll provide detailed insights into how these techniques and elements contribute to the storytelling and overall impact of the sequence.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

Make sure you have access to:

• your list of observations of the opening sequence of Brave
• your saved Brave film study draft.

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 2 Hours

Set aside two hours to complete steps 1-7 below. Remember to save your work as you go when using your word-processing app.

1. Revisit your list of observations of the opening sequence of Brave.
2. Identify key points related to film techniques (such as types of shots, camera movements, transitions, composition) and visual elements (depicting historical and cultural settings) that you noted during the film sequence.
3. Based on the items in your observation lists, write descriptive sentences that expand upon each point.
4. Provide examples and specific details to illustrate how each film technique or visual element enhances the storytelling in the Brave sequence.
5. String together the new sentences you've written into short paragraphs.
6. Organise these paragraphs into two sections:
   1. Paragraphs describing the film sequence's film techniques.
   2. Paragraphs describing the visual elements that depict historical and cultural settings.
7. Save your film study draft.

What should you do after completing this task?

How well do your paragraphs convey the significance of the film techniques and visual elements in enhancing the storytelling? What additional details or examples could strengthen your film study?

It's time to expand your understanding further by exploring additional sources such as articles, books, or interviews related to the film sequence. By including insights from these sources in your film study, you'll deepen your comprehension of visual storytelling, sharpening your ability to use visual and film elements within the context of animation.

Case Study

Sourcing directorial insights: Mark Andrews and Brave

You’ve already identified that Brave was made by Pixar and directed by Mark Andrews. Now, imagine you'd like to find sources of information about camera techniques that enhance the storytelling in Brave.

Explore direct sources

You could search to find out if Andrews explains his approach to filmmaking in sources such as interviews, 'the making of...' documentaries, featurettes, or media articles.

Watch this brief excerpt (5.20m, starting from 1.24m) of Andrews's lecture to CalArts (California Institute of the Arts) students:

Andrews emphasises how important it is:

His words, quoted here, reflect observations you may already have made when watching the opening film sequence from Brave. In just the first few shots, the economy of storytelling is very evident, and viewers quickly learn about the world, characters, and historical and cultural settings. All of that is packed into just the two opening shots.

Explore other directions for sources

You could also explore other directions when looking for sources to inform your film study.

Search for ‘Mark Andrews filmography’ online. You'll discover he's worked as a storyboard artist on films like Pixar's The Incredibles, directed by Brad Bird.

Several excerpts are available online in featurettes about making The Incredibles, where Andrews discusses his approach to storyboarding – you can see some of those same ideas in his work on Brave as director.

You could also look to Bird to explore how his directorial choices are similar to (and may have influenced) Andrews’s directorial choices in Brave.

Explore possible connections with sources

Feel free to explore possible connections by seeking examples (i.e. evidence) to support or counter different thoughts and ideas.

The economy that Andrews referred to in the YouTube source above is perhaps most obvious in the handling of characters.

The main character in Brave, Merida, has physical features that reflect her personality, making it almost instant for an audience to understand or identify with the character. She has a:

Economical thinking is equally evident in the environments in Brave. Consider this quote:

By exploring the methods of directors such as Mark Andrews, you gain deeper insights into storytelling and film techniques that shape animated experiences like Brave. Exploring various sources for directorial insights will enrich your film study and provide valuable perspectives.

Practice

Task 10: Source quotes for your Brave film study 

Deepen your understanding of visual storytelling elements in the Brave film sequence by sourcing quotes from relevant materials such as documentaries, articles about the film, or interviews with its director. By incorporating other sources into your film study, you'll give weight to - and even challenge - your ideas around visual storytelling and provide valuable insights from the creators and themselves.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

Make sure you have access to:

• the Brave 2012 Behind The Scenes documentary (1:13:46h):

• your saved Brave film study draft.

What steps should you take to complete this task?

2 Hours

Set aside two hours to complete steps 1-6 below. Remember to save your work as you go when using your word-processing app.

1. Watch the Brave 2012 Behind The Scenes documentary to gain insights into the filmmaking process and the creative decisions behind the Brave film sequence.
2. Note any important comments or other significant insights that align with your previous observations in your film study while watching the documentary.
3. Note each quote’s source (i.e., timestamp in the documentary) to ensure proper citation later. This step is essential for citing your sources accurately in your film study and providing proper attribution to the creators.
4. Extend your research by watching or reading other relevant sources such as documentaries, articles about the film, or interviews with its director. Repeat Steps 2-3 for each new source.
5. Integrate the quotes into your film study by weaving them into your paragraphs to support your interpretations of visual elements and film techniques used in the Brave opening sequence.
6. Save your film study draft.

What should you do after completing this task?

How have your sourced quotes enhanced your breakdown of visual storytelling elements in Brave? What new perspectives or insights have you gained from these quotes?

At this point, your film study is really coming together! Take a moment to acknowledge the excellent progress you've made so far. Keep up the great work, and continue refining your words. Next, find out how to:

• Expand your paragraphs and check your progress.
• Use APA Style referencing.
• Do a final check.
• Fine-tune and complete your Brave film study.

Tip

Reference with precision – Academic Writing Essentials

APA Style is widely used in academic writing and research to acknowledge the ownership of sources of information and ideas used in a paper or article – like a film study.

APA Style provides you with guidelines to format:

• citations within your text
• a reference list at the end of your film study

You’ll find more information on using APA Style when referencing your sources in the Academic Writing Essentials subtopic. Just follow these breadcrumbs:

4. Foundations > 4.2 Visual Storytelling > 4.2.4 Academic Writing Essentials > Referencing

Tip

Polish your writing!

Looking to improve your writing for your film study assessment task?

Check out the following Academic Writing Tips subtopic for helpful strategies. From crafting clear paragraphs to avoiding first-person writing, you'll find helpful tips to elevate your writing.

4. Foundations > 4.2 Visual Storytelling > 4.2.4 Academic Writing Essentials > Academic Writing Tips

Practice

Task 11: Fine-tune and complete your Brave film study

It's time to finalise and polish your Brave film study! Expanding your paragraphs, checking your progress, and following APA style guidelines will help you complete a well-structured, comprehensive, and insightful film study. 

This learning task also includes an opportunity for you to receive valuable feedback on your film study, helping you refine your work and craft an even better film study as part of this module's first assessment task.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

• Make sure you have access to your Brave film study draft.

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 2 Hours

Set aside two hours to complete steps 1-6 below. Remember to save your work as you go when using your word-processing app.

1. Revisit the Film Study section to reinforce what you know if you need to.
2. Expand your paragraph by adding depth where needed, ensuring each paragraph supports your breakdown of the film techniques and visual elements in the Brave opening sequence.
3. Check your progress to make sure you’re on track.
   1. Refer to the Check Your Progress checklist above. 
   2. Re-read your film study to ensure it flows logically and coherently. 
   3. Make sure each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. 
   4. Meet the word count. Aim for a word count of 500-1000 words, equivalent to one to two pages A4 pages in 11-point type. Adjust your content to be concise yet thorough, ensuring you stay within this limit.
4. Use APA Style to acknowledge your sources:
   1. Review all quotes and references you've included in your film study.
   2. Format each citation according to APA Style guidelines, ensuring proper attribution to sources.
   3. Tip: Visit the Academic Writing Essentials subtopic to learn how to use APA Style.
5. Complete a final check: 
   1. Clarity: Make sure your ideas are clearly expressed and easy to follow.
   2. Use of paragraphs: Ensure each paragraph has a clear main idea and supporting details.
   3. Grammar and spelling: Proofread your film study for grammatical or spelling errors.
6. Save your final draft using a clear and descriptive filename, such as ‘Brave_Film_Study_Final’.
7. Post your completed film study to the forum for feedback (see below).

What should you do after completing this task?

1. Reflect on the evolution of your film study from its initial stages to completion. What challenges did you face in breaking down the visual storytelling elements of the Brave opening sequence, and how has your understanding of film techniques used in animated films deepened? 
2. Share your Brave film study to Forum:
   1. Select your forum thread in Forum: Visual Storytelling.
   2. Select Reply to your first Forum post.
   3. Enter the words ‘Task 11: Film Study’ in your reply.
   4. Select the Post your response button, then select Edit in your new reply when it shows up.
   5. Upload your photo(s) or files using the Attachment field.
   6. Select Save changes to share your coursework to your forum thread.
3. Get feedback on this and other learning tasks at the next Live Session – check the Live Session calendar for dates and times.

It’s time for a well-deserved break away from your device! When you come back, look out for the next subtopic, Academic Writing Essentials, if you need help with referencing or citing your sources. 

Alternatively, go straight to the next subtopic, Story Concept Development to discover the initial step of animating your final sequence!  

Important

Connecting Academic Writing Essentials with your Film Study

Knowing the essentials of academic writing is critical when writing a film study, particularly for Step 6: Prepare References and Citations. That step involves providing specific references for your sources in the proper format to enhance the credibility of your work.

How this subtopic helps you:

• Proper referencing: Learn the correct format for listing sources in your reference list, ensuring your film study clearly references the specific part of the film you are reviewing and helping you avoid plagiarism.
• Citation styles: Familiarise yourself with the APA Style commonly used at Yoobee. This knowledge is important for formatting your in-text citations accurately.
• Paraphrasing and quoting: Effectively integrate ideas and statements from your sources into your film study.

By leveraging the skills from this subtopic, you'll be well-prepared to create references and citations, strengthening your film study and acknowledging the wider intellectual and filmmaking communities.

This film (Miyazaki, 1988, 12:35) portrays the director’s masterful animation, blending whimsical character design with lush, evocative backgrounds.

Tip

Stay Organised, Research Efficiently, Cite Correctly

Save your sources’ links as you research - list all the references and in-text citations as you draft your film study to avoid none are missing from your reference list.

It’s best to use an APA referencing resource to get the structure right. You’re not expected to remember the exact format of different types of reference formatting, but you can use a reference ‘generator’ resource to support you.

For more information on APA Style, visit How to Cite in APA Style. You can also use this site’s APA Citation Generator to help you when creating your reference list.

Zaboomafoo “spread a love of nature and science to the masses” (Soria, 2014, p. 4).

Zaboomafoo the lemur is a furry, lovable, and kind PBS character that instilled a love of wildlife and science in young TV audiences (Soria, 2014).

Tip

Using transitions

Transitions are words and phrases that help guide the reader through the logical flow of ideas and ensure smooth transitions between sentences and paragraphs. They come in various forms and serve different purposes in writing.

Here are some examples:

• Addition: Additionally, Furthermore, Moreover, In addition, Also
• Comparison: Similarly, Likewise, In the same way, Just as
• Contrast: However, Nevertheless, On the other hand, Conversely, In contrast
• Cause and Effect: Consequently, Therefore, Thus, As a result, Accordingly
• Sequence/Order: Firstly, Secondly, Lastly, Next, Finally
• Example/Illustration: For example, For instance, Specifically, To illustrate
• Conclusion: In conclusion, To sum up, Ultimately, In summary, Therefore
• Time: Meanwhile, Afterward, Subsequently
• Emphasis: Indeed, In fact, Certainly, Of course, Undoubtedly
• Result: Consequently, Accordingly, Hence, Therefore, Thus

Important

Gearing up for your assessment tasks

An assessment task in this module involves drawing a storyboard for a sequence of 4-6 animated shots based on your story concept.

Before diving into the storyboard, developing a strong story concept is essential.

This subtopic will guide you through a structured process comprising three essential steps to develop your story concept. Using a case study of a library mystery scene, you'll gain practical insights into crafting a compelling narrative.

Additionally, you'll be able to apply these steps through two learning tasks designed to reinforce your skills in concept development.

As you work through these tasks, remember that a well-developed concept is crucial for creating a compelling storyboard. Take your time to brainstorm creatively and write a clear, concise synopsis.

Each step you complete will bring you closer to producing a storyboard that effectively conveys your final sequence story.

Case Study

Story concept – Generating an idea

The first part of this story concept case study describes the process of generating ideas, narrowing them down, and ultimately selecting a feasible concept (a library mystery scene) to bring to animated life.

Initial project ideas

Several ideas for possible projects were considered, including:

• Discovering the ruins of an ancient temple in the jungle.
• The messy office of a private detective during a bizarre case.
• A Victorian observatory while making an amazing discovery about the cosmos.
• A quiet underground tube station late at night as a train rattles by.

Narrowing down the ideas

Ultimately, none of these ideas were chosen for this project. The first two ideas were too broad in their scope and would require more time to complete than was available. Creating all the assets necessary to make a convincing jungle would take far too long to complete. Similarly, a messy detective's office would require more modelling and texturing than could be completed in a short timeframe, doing the idea justice.

Focusing on feasible concepts

The Victorian observatory and tube station were good ideas for interesting and achievable environments to build in the timeframe. Still, no clear idea of a narrative could be built around the setting. Too much time would likely be spent trying to build that story element of the project.

Final decision on an idea

In the end, a scenario set in the library of an old manor house was chosen. This idea provided plenty of scope to create a nice-looking environment, and the concept of an old private library sparked an idea for the essential narrative element. This narrative element would keep the audience interested in the project’s visual aspect.

Practice

Task 12: Generate three simple story ideas

Practice generating story ideas, which is the initial step in developing a story concept for your storyboard. By practising this skill, you'll gain valuable confidence in exploring various narrative possibilities and grow your storytelling abilities.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

Make sure you have access to any app or tool that allows you to generate and record your story ideas. Choose the tools that you feel most comfortable with, or that align best with your creative process. 

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 1 Hour

Set aside up to one hour to complete steps 1-3 below. Remember to save your work as you go.

1. Explore sources of inspiration to stimulate your creativity: 
   1. Watch films or animated sequences that inspire you.
   2. Explore different genres, themes, and mediums (e.g. books, games). 
   3. Pay attention to elements like settings, shots, and other visual storytelling techniques that resonate with you.
2. Generate individual story ideas:
   1. Set aside dedicated time to brainstorm and generate three simple story ideas on your own. 
   2. Use mind mapping, free writing, or visual brainstorming techniques to stimulate your imagination.
   3. Write down each idea as it comes to you without worrying about judgment or criticism. 
   4. Allow yourself to explore different story concepts and let your creativity flow freely, keeping your ideas simple.
3. Select your three top story ideas for upcoming story concept development.

What should you do after completing this task?

1. What type of idea generation most effectively stimulated your creativity during this learning task? Which aspects of your three ideas do you find most compelling or promising?
2. Share your three ideas to Forum:
   1. Select your forum thread in Forum: Visual Storytelling.
   2. Select Reply to your first Forum post.
   3. Enter the words ‘Task 12: Ideas’ in your reply.
   4. Select the Post your response button, then select Edit in your new reply when it shows up.
   5. Upload your photo(s) or files using the Attachment field.
   6. Select Save changes to share your coursework to your forum thread.
3. Get feedback on this and other learning tasks at the next Live Session – check the Live Session calendar for dates and times.

Now that you've generated three promising story ideas, it's time to develop one of them further by creating a compelling narrative around it. In the next learning task, you'll practise crafting a concise synopsis that captures your concept’s storyline.

Case Study

Story concept – Creating a story around the chosen idea

The next phase in the story concept case study describes the main story points for the library mystery scene idea.

Main story points

The narrative framework of the project unfolds in a series of distinct story points – or story ‘beats’ – each contributing to the overall storytelling:

• Library entrance: The scene opens as viewers are introduced to the library setting, entering through its grand main doors, setting the stage for the unfolding story.
• Gramophone and newspaper: Moving deeper into the library, attention is drawn to a gramophone and a newspaper with a headline proclaiming "Heiress Inherits Fortune!" placed on a side table.
• Fireplace and chair: Progressing further, the focus shifts towards a large fireplace and a chair, positioned with its back to the camera, creating an air of mystery and anticipation.
• Fallen book: As viewers approach, a fallen book comes into view, lying carelessly on the floor, signalling a disruption in the tranquil library environment.
• Pool of red liquid: The fallen book reveals a pool of red liquid on the floor, juxtaposing the serenity of the library with an ominous presence. Small drips of liquid intensify the sense of unease.
• Source of the drips: Following the trail of drips, attention is drawn to a feminine hand loosely holding a nearly empty wine glass, the source of the mysterious liquid slowly dripping onto the floor.

Next step: the synopsis

These story beats serve as a foundation for writing a synopsis of the story, which in turn will guide the creation of storyboards and (eventually) the project’s animatic.

Case Study

Story concept – Writing the synopsis

The final phase in the story concept case study is writing a synopsis of the library mystery story.

Synopsis example

Think of a synopsis as a teaser or preview that describes the story, offering enough information to grasp the essence of its narrative. Read this synopsis of the library mystery story:

"We enter the library of a grand old home; the furnishings are varied, rich and comfortable, and a large painting is proudly displayed over a fireplace, which takes up most of the wall at the far end of the room. A large imposing leather chair is in front of the fireplace, with its back towards the door. An old gramophone plays softly on a side table near the door. As we approach the chair, a newspaper proudly proclaims, “Heiress inherits fortune!”. Something doesn't seem quite right; a slumped shape is lying in the chair, a book lies crumpled on the floor, and a pool of dark red liquid beside it."

Bridging concept development and storyboards

The synopsis now functions as the narrative backbone, providing a clear roadmap for the visual storytelling journey in the animated project. It serves as a direct translation of the conceptual idea into actionable scenes, guiding and shaping the creation of a storyboard.

Practice

Task 13: Write a short synopsis for one of your ideas

Develop your story concept further by crafting a short synopsis for your story idea. This task focuses on the second and third steps of concept development, where you create a cohesive story around your initial idea and write a synopsis to outline its main story beats.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

Make sure you have access to any app or tool that allows you to generate and record your story points and synopsis. Choose the tools that you feel most comfortable with or that aligns best with your creative process. 

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 2 Hours

Set aside up to two hours to complete steps 1-7 below. Remember to save your work as you go.

1. Choose one idea from the three you generated and selected in the previous learning task. Consider which idea resonates with you the most and has the potential to be the most engaging.
2. Refine or narrow down your idea if you need to adjust it to fit the scope of your final sequence’s requirements.  
3. Brainstorm story points – ‘story beats’ – that could occur within the story. Consider the beginning, middle, and end.
4. Create an outline (e.g. a list) that outlines the major plot beats, including the introduction, rising action, climax, and resolution. This outline provides a roadmap for your narrative. Ensure a sense of progression and development throughout.
5. Flesh out your outline with sensory details, vivid descriptions, and emotional resonance to bring your story world to life for the reader or viewer.
6. Take time to revise and refine your outline, focusing on pacing, narrative development, and thematic consistency. Make any necessary changes to strengthen the narrative.
7. Write a concise synopsis that outlines the main plot points of your story. Keep it focused and capture the essence of your narrative in one brief paragraph.

What should you do after completing this task?

1. As you wrote your short synopsis, what challenges did you encounter in keeping it focused? How did you ensure that your synopsis effectively captured the main story beats while maintaining its coherence?
2. Share your synopsis to Forum:
   1. Select your forum thread in Forum: Visual Storytelling.
   2. Select Reply to your first Forum post.
   3. Enter the words ‘Task 13: Synopsis’ in your reply.
   4. Select the Post your response button, then select Edit in your new reply when it shows up.
   5. Upload your photo(s) or files using the Attachment field.
   6. Select Save changes to share your coursework to your forum thread.
3. Get feedback on this and other learning tasks at the next Live Session – check the Live Session calendar for dates and times.

After writing your short synopsis, the next step is translating your narrative into visual storytelling through storyboards. In the next subtopic, you'll learn how to create dynamic and engaging storyboard sequences that visually bring your story concept to life. Through this process, you'll further develop your storytelling skills and refine your ability to communicate stories effectively through images and sequences.

Tip

Capturing a story’s essence

Think of your storyboard reading just as a story would, capturing not only action and staging but mood, emotion, and atmosphere.

A storyboard artist’s choice of visuals must clearly describe the action and events in the story, as well as the story's mood, flow and pacing.

As well as an eye for camera work, it helps to know how acting works to position characters and describe their actions and expressions well in each scene.

Case Study

Bath time

Remember that the first step in drawing your storyboard for a short sequence is generating a simple story idea (see the Story Concept Development subtopic if you need to refresh your memory). A story idea could be a toddler climbing a sofa or you kicking a ball around.

Consider this synopsis for a simple story:

A small baby is having a bath, splashing and enjoying the warm water. Suddenly, he stops thrashing about in the water and a look of intense concentration forms on his face. Just as suddenly, a stream of nasty, toxic-looking sludge appears in the water. The baby's face then returns to normal, and he goes back to thrashing around in the now-spoiled water.

So, what do you do next to draw your storyboard? Look at the following process and find out!

Practice

Task 14: Draw a short sequence of storyboard panels for a story idea

Develop your storyboarding skills by creating a short sequence of panels based on a simple story idea. By selecting one scenario from the provided options and brainstorming a story around it, you'll reinforce your knowledge of translating story concepts into visual sequences. Then, draw storyboard panels using the provided template to practice effectively conveying action, emotion, and pacing to engage your audience.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

Make sure you have access to:

• Storyboard template  – you can download and either print a hardcopy or edit it in Adobe Photoshop
• Pencil (2B  or similar is recommended) and eraser, or a digital device and tool (i.e. Adobe Photoshop).

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 2 Hours

Set aside two hours to complete steps 1-4 below. Remember to save your work as you go if you are using Adobe Photoshop.

1. Choose one scenario from the following options:
   1. It is bathtime for an infant or small child.
   2. You are playing a sport of your choice.
   3. A child is climbing a tree or similar structure.
2. Brainstorm a basic story idea that revolves around your selected scenario. Consider the setting, characters involved, and the unfolding events. Keep the story simple and focused on the chosen scenario.
3. Draw a short sequence of storyboard panels (i.e. 3-6 panels) using the provided storyboard template. Each panel should depict a key moment or action in the narrative, progressing the story from beginning to end.
4. Follow the do's and don'ts in the section above to ensure clarity, engagement, and effectiveness in your storyboard panels. Refine your panel composition, character expressions, and the balance between detail and simplicity.

What should you do after completing this task?

1. How did translating your story idea into storyboard panels enhance your understanding of visual storytelling techniques, such as shots, composition, and camera techniques? Which do’s and don’ts did you find most challenging to implement in your storyboard?
2. Share your storyboard to Forum:
   1. Select your forum thread in Forum: Visual Storytelling.
   2. Select Reply to your first Forum post.
   3. Enter the words ‘Task 14: Short Sequence ’ in your reply.
   4. Select the Post your response button, then select Edit in your new reply when it shows up.
   5. Upload your photo(s) or files using the Attachment field.
   6. Select Save changes to share your coursework to your forum thread.
3. Get feedback on this and other learning tasks at the next Live Session – check the Live Session calendar for dates and times.

When you’re ready, move through the remainder of this subtopic and learn how to keep continuity intact in your storyboards and make them visually interesting before moving to the Geography subtopic and its implications for camera placement and character staging.

Tip

Running into a rain cloud (almost)

Check out how Normand Lemay (well-known storyboard artist) portrays the technique of maintaining direction as a basic storyboarding technique:

Tip

From solitude to sky

Check out how Lemay portrays the storyboarding technique of characters maintaining screen position:

Important

Gearing up for your assessment tasks

As you know by now, an assessment task in this module involves drawing a storyboard for a sequence of 4-6 animated shots based on your story concept.

To prepare for this, you'll practise storyboarding in this subtopic through a series of tasks. First, you'll draw storyboards for two script sequences from Room on the Broom, honing your skills in visual storytelling. Then, you'll apply what you've learned by creating a series of storyboard panels for your own story concept.

These learning tasks will guide you in crafting an evocative storyboard that incorporates visual storytelling elements, clearly conveying your story concept in a simple but effective way.

Practice

Task 15: Draw a storyboard for a script sequence from Room on the Broom

Develop your storyboarding skills by creating a storyboard for a sequence from the animated adaptation of Room on the Broom. Practise using storyboarding techniques to convey the sequence’s story through poses and expressions to convey character actions, attitudes, thoughts, and emotions.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

Make sure you have access to:

• Storyboard template  – you can download and either print a hardcopy or edit it in Adobe Photoshop
• Pencil (B2 or similar is recommended) and eraser, or a digital device and tool (i.e.. Adobe Photoshop)
• Room on the Broom Model Sheet 
• Room on the Broom Script Sequence 1.

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 16 Hours

Set aside up to 16 hours to complete steps 1-5 below. Remember to save your work as you go if you are using Adobe Photoshop.

1. Read Script sequence 1 from Room on the Broom. Identify the key moments, actions, and emotions in the sequence.
2. Consider how to visually represent each key moment and emotion in your storyboard panels. Think about the settings, character expressions, and actions.
3. Use the provided storyboard template to draw enough storyboard panels to visually describe the sequence clearly.
4. Apply storyboarding techniques, i.e.:
   1. Use information lines to convey basic details about characters and backgrounds.
   2. Ensure silhouettes are clear and easily readable.
   3. Add simple details like clothes and hairstyles for clarity.
   4. Practice drawing a range of facial expressions to enhance character emotions.
   5. Use values to add dimension and clarity to your panels.
   6. Apply line work to simplify and clarify your drawings.
5. Review your storyboard for clarity and expressiveness and make any necessary adjustments to improve the storytelling and visual impact.

What should you do after completing this task?

1. How effectively do you think your storyboard conveys the story within the first Room on the Broom script sequence? What storyboarding techniques did you find most useful in enhancing your storyboard?
2. Share your storyboard to Forum:
   1. Select your forum thread in Forum: Visual Storytelling.
   2. Select Reply to your first Forum post.
   3. Enter the words ‘Task 15: Sequence 1’ in your reply.
   4. Select the Post your response button, then select Edit in your new reply when it shows up.
   5. Upload your photo(s) or files using the Attachment field.
   6. Select Save changes to share your coursework to your forum thread.
3. Get feedback on this and other learning tasks at the next Live Session – check the Live Session calendar for dates and times.

When you’re ready, proceed to the next learning task: Draw another storyboard for a different script sequence from Room on the Broom to continue practising and refining your storyboarding skills.

Practice

Task 16: Draw another storyboard for a different script sequence from Room on the Broom

Keep developing your storyboarding skills by creating a storyboard for another sequence from the animated adaptation of Room on the Broom, and build on your growing abilities to convey a narrative through visual storytelling.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

Make sure you have access to:

• Storyboard template  – you can download and either print a hardcopy or edit it in Adobe Photoshop
• Pencil (B2 or similar is recommended) and eraser, or a digital device and tool (i.e.. Adobe Photoshop)
• Room on the Broom Model Sheet 
• Room on the Broom Script Sequence 2.

What steps should you take to complete this task?

Set aside up to 16 hours to complete steps 1-5 below. Remember to save your work as you go if you are using Adobe Photoshop.

1. Read Script sequence 2 from Room on the Broom. Identify the key moments, actions, and emotions in the sequence.
2. Consider how to visually represent each key moment and emotion in your storyboard panels. Think about the settings, character expressions, and actions.
3. Use the provided storyboard template to draw enough storyboard panels to visually describe the sequence clearly.
4. Apply storyboarding techniques, i.e.:
   1. Use information lines to convey basic details about characters and backgrounds.
   2. Ensure silhouettes are clear and easily readable.
   3. Add simple details like clothes and hairstyles for clarity.
   4. Practice drawing a range of facial expressions to enhance character emotions.
   5. Use values to add dimension and clarity to your panels.
   6. Apply line work to simplify and clarify your drawings.
5. Review your storyboard for clarity and expressiveness and make any necessary adjustments to improve the storytelling and visual impact.

What should you do after completing this task?

1. How did your experience with storyboarding the first Room on the Broom sequence influence your approach to this second sequence? What new techniques or improvements did you incorporate in this second storyboard compared to your first storyboard?
2. Share your storyboard to Forum:
   1. Select your forum thread in Forum: Visual Storytelling.
   2. Select Reply to your first Forum post.
   3. Enter the words ‘Task 16: Sequence 2’ in your reply.
   4. Select the Post your response button, then select Edit in your new reply when it shows up.
   5. Upload your photo(s) or files using the Attachment field.
   6. Select Save changes to share your coursework to your forum thread.
3. Get feedback on this and other learning tasks at the next Live Session – check the Live Session calendar for dates and times.

Congratulations on completing your storyboards for sequences from Room on the Broom! Your focus on learning storyboarding techniques underscores your commitment to sharpening your animation skills. As you move forward, apply your storyboarding skills to develop a storyboard for your story concept you developed earlier, and keep up your confidence and creativity!

Important

Gearing up for your assessment tasks

As you know by now, an assessment task in this module involves drawing a storyboard for a sequence of 4-6 animated shots based on your story concept.

Remember to share your coursework in Forum: Visual Storytelling as you practise drawing your storyboard in the upcoming learning task. Seeking feedback from your facilitator is crucial for refining your skills and ensuring your coursework aligns with assessment expectations.

Embrace this learning opportunity to elevate your visual storytelling and excel in your assessments.

Tip

Fixing problem areas using a draw over

Background

This tip demonstrates how creating a 3D version of a scene using software like Maya and overlaying it with drawings can help identify and adjust problematic areas within a panel’s composition.

Identifying and addressing problems

Example 1: Mezzanine floor

Initially, a mezzanine floor ran around the outer edges of the library room. However, in the drawn storyboard, this feature did not read well and detracted from the overall composition. To enhance the visual impact, the mezzanine was removed entirely. Floor-to-ceiling bookcases were added instead, significantly improving the composition in the storyboard panel.

Example 2: Skylight adjustment

Another issue was a skylight positioned in the middle of the room, which was not visible in the final shot. Several solutions were considered:

1. Moving the skylight to a more prominent location.
2. Increasing the size of the skylight to make it more visible.
3. Replacing the skylight with a chandelier or similar light fixture to enhance the shot's composition.
4. Removing the skylight from the shot entirely.

The fourth solution was chosen to ensure that the element did not compromise the visual narrative.

Example 3: Floor detail enhancement

The floor under the table initially appeared barren and lacked detail. To address this, additional elements such as a large rug were proposed to add visual interest and richness to this area of the frame.

Conclusion

Using a 3D version of the environment and overlaying it with drawings provides a practical approach to identifying and fixing composition issues in storyboards. This method helps refine the visual narrative, ensuring each element works harmoniously to tell the story effectively. By addressing problem areas early on, the overall quality and impact of the storyboard are significantly enhanced, leading to a more compelling and visually appealing animation.

Case Study

Storyboard panels – Developing the visual strategy

Background

The story revolves around the discovery of the heiress in the library early in the morning. The storyboard panels were designed to build up to this revelation, and needed careful decisions about what to show, how to show it, and when to show it.

Key points considered included:

• Entering the library: Establishing the setting by showing the entrance to the library.
• Newspaper foreshadowing: Displaying a newspaper with a headline that hints at the events leading to the heiress's fate.
• Gramophone playing: Indicating an interrupted nightly routine by showing a gramophone still playing, with curtains open, appliances on, and the fire still burning.
• Hero chair: Focusing on the main chair to reveal its significance and its contents.
• Fallen book and pool of liquid: Highlighting a fallen book and a pool of liquid on the floor to add suspense and detail to the scene.
• Main title reveal: Ensuring the book and pool of liquid lead into the main title.

Visual storytelling considerations

Decisions were made regarding the presentation of these key points to ensure they were visually comprehensible to the audience. This involved choosing between cutting scenes or employing long camera moves, and determining the duration of each shot.

As the storyboards were developed, these choices became clearer. The process of creating storyboards and eventually an animatic—a rough version of the story in real-time—helped in refining the visual narrative. The animatic, built from the completed storyboard panels, will guide the pacing and reveal the most effective ways to animate the story.

Completed storyboard panels

Take a look at the series of completed storyboard panels for the Library story concept, across six pages.

Practice

Task 17: Create a series of storyboard panels for your story concept

Use your storyboarding skills to create a detailed series of storyboard panels that fully describe the story concept you developed in the Story Concept Development subtopic. This learning task will solidify your visual storytelling skills and prepare you for a task in the upcoming assessment, where you need to submit your storyboard for a sequence of 4-6 animated shots based on your story concept.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

Make sure you have access to:

• Storyboard template  – you can download and either print a hardcopy or edit it in Adobe Photoshop
• Pencil (B2 or similar is recommended) and eraser, or a digital device and tool (i.e.. Adobe Photoshop)
• Your story concept synopsis.

What steps should you take to complete this task?

Set aside up to 18 hours to complete steps 1-6 below. Remember to save your work as you go if you are using Adobe Photoshop.

1. Revisit the synopsis you wrote for your story concept to recall your narrative's main plot points and overall structure.
2. Break down your story into key moments essential for the story, considering how to incorporate storytelling elements that communicate your story concept in a straightforward yet impactful manner.
3. Use the provided storyboard template to draw a sequence of storyboard panels depicting your story’s key moments. Ensure you:
   1. Number each scene, describe actions, indicate camera angles, and note sound effects. 
   2. Apply techniques like using polygon primitives, ensuring clear silhouettes, adding simple details, practising a range of facial expressions, using values and colour for dimension, and applying line work for clarity. 
4. Follow the do's and don'ts from Storyboard formatting to refine your panels, enhancing clarity and engagement. Consider strategies such as using one basic environment and camera movement to create different shots and incorporating simple animation elements to enhance the atmosphere without adding excessive workload.
5. Review your storyboard for clarity and expressiveness, ensuring each panel effectively communicates the intended action and emotion. Make any necessary adjustments to improve storytelling and visual impact.
6. Post your storyboard to the forum for feedback from your facilitator, focusing on refining your sequence based on your facilitator’s suggestions to align with the assessment criteria.  

What should you do after completing this task?

1. How does visualising your story concept through storyboard panels enhance your understanding of pacing, narrative flow, and visual storytelling techniques? What breakthroughs did you experience while translating your story concept into storyboard panels, and how did these breakthroughs influence your storytelling approach?
2. Share your storyboard to the Forum:
   1. Select your forum thread in Forum: Visual Storytelling.
   2. Select Reply to your first Forum post.
   3. Enter the words ‘Task 17: Final Sequence Storyboard’ in your reply.
   4. Select the Post your response button, then select Edit in your new reply when it shows up.
   5. Upload your photo(s) or files using the Attachment field.
   6. Select Save changes to share your coursework to your forum thread.
3. Get feedback on this and other learning tasks at the next Live Session – check the Live Session calendar for dates and times.

Use the valuable feedback from your facilitator to refine your storyboard, recognising its significance as an assessment task in your journey through Visual Storytelling. Next, dive into the final subtopic - Fundamental Narrative and Storytelling Concepts - leveraging the insights gained from what you've learnt so far in this module to strengthen your storytelling skills.

Practice

Task 18: Complete story treatment components for Spirited Away

Deepen your understanding of story structure by creating a story treatment for Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away. By breaking down and organising its narrative elements, you'll gain valuable insights into how effective storytelling is crafted, enhancing your ability to structure and develop compelling stories in your own work.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

Make sure you have access to:

• Studio Ghibli’s animated feature film Spirited Away. You can find it on streaming services (e.g. Netflix) or rent it online.
• the Spirited Away worksheet.

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 3 Hours

Set aside up to three hours to complete steps 1-4 below. Remember to save your work as you go when using Word.

1. Download the Spirited Away worksheet.
2. Watch the Spirited Away film, paying close attention to its narrative elements (including plot), characters, and setting. 
3. In your Spirited Away worksheet:
   1. Identify the story’s main title. Describe how the title encapsulates the essence of the story.
   2. Write a one or two-sentence summary (logline) of the story. Ensure it captures the core of the narrative succinctly.
   3. Write a plot summary by developing an extended version of the logline. Detail the plot, establishing the narrative’s theme and tone. Focus on how the story unfolds from beginning to end.
   4. Describe the major protagonists and antagonists. Provide brief descriptions of their goals and roles within the narrative. Consider their development and motivations.
   5. Describe the setting, where and when the story takes place. Highlight how the environment and time period contribute to the characters’ backgrounds and the overall story.
4. Make any required updates to your Spirited Away worksheet and save it to your device.

What should you do after completing this task?

How did creating a story treatment for Spirited Away deepen your understanding of its narrative structure and storytelling techniques? What insights did you gain about the importance of character development and setting in crafting a compelling narrative?

Delve into the following Conventional Three-Act Narrative Structure section to further explain how Spirited Away conforms to or deviates from this specific model, enhancing your appreciation of narrative pacing, character arcs, and plot development in Studio Ghibli's animated masterpiece.

Practice

Task 19: Explain the three-act narrative structure of Spirited Away

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the three-act narrative structure by applying the model to Spirited Away, and learn how to recognise effective storytelling strategies while gaining practical knowledge to apply to your own visual storytelling.

What tools or resources do you need for this task?

Make sure you have access to:

• Your saved Spirited Away worksheet.

What steps should you take to complete this task?

 2 Hours

Set aside two hours to complete steps 1-3 below. Remember to save your work as you go when using Word.

1. Revisit the three-act narrative structure model, focusing on the purpose of each act in setting up the beginning, middle, and end of a story.
2. Open your Spirited Away worksheet and describe how each act contributes to the film’s overall narrative progression and character development:
   1. First act (introduction):
      1. Identify the protagonist, other characters, and the established setting.
      2. Highlight the inciting incident that initiates the conflict and rising action.
   2. Second act (conflict and rising action):
      1. Describe the intensification of conflict and character interactions.
      2. Explore the antagonist's role in opposing the protagonist's quest and the significance of the act's climax.
   3. Third act (resolution and conclusion):
      1. Examine the resolution of conflicts and questions posed throughout the story.
      2. Reflect on the protagonist's journey and any transformations experienced.
3. Make any required updates to your Spirited Away worksheet and save it to your device.

What should you do after completing this task?

1. How did applying a three-act narrative structure to Spirited Away enhance your understanding of narrative progression and character development in storytelling? What specific storytelling techniques from the film could you apply to your own visual storytelling projects to create more engaging and coherent narratives?
2. Share your Spirited Away worksheet to the Forum:
   1. Select your forum thread in Forum: Visual Storytelling.
   2. Select Reply to your first Forum post.
   3. Enter the words ‘Task 19: Acts’ in your reply.
   4. Select the Post your response button, then select Edit in your new reply when it shows up.
   5. Upload your photo(s) or files using the Attachment field.
   6. Select Save changes to share your coursework to your forum thread.
3. Get feedback on this and other learning tasks at the next Live Session – check the Live Session calendar for dates and times.

Congratulations on completing the final learning task of this Visual Storytelling topic! Take a moment to celebrate your achievements and the insights you've gained.

Next, head to Summary to reflect on all you have accomplished and the knowledge you’ve gained at this mid-point in the module journey as you prepare to start the final topic in the Diploma of Animation, Final Sequence.