River Terrace Kidumentaries

Fifth Graders Write, Direct and Produce!

River Terrace fifth graders recently wrote, directed and filmed their own documentaries which premiered on March 18. The 11 “Kidumentaries” were screened in the Grosvenor Auditorium at the National Geographic headquarters before an audience of media and educational professionals.

Student films focused on how-to or autobiography, with many combining elements of both. While explaining birdhouse construction, for example, Angel Rouse tells viewers how she and her friend Kayla frequently undertake such projects as weekend activities. Teaching liturgical movement, Timia Stagg-Simmons explains how she learned the dance. “The Life & Times of Michael McShay” is the most purely autobiographical, while many students – such as “Pet Detectives” Nicholas Brown and Keyshawn Willilams — include a bit about themselves to draw viewers into their subject.

Chemical reactions and cooking are the focus of “Crazy Chemistry,” by Vance Allen and Cyre Collins; “Breakfast Divas,” by Yhumi’ Burns and Emoni Price; and “Sweet Tooth,” by LynShawn Ebron and Shavonne Fraley. Movement is the subject of “Hot Hands,” by Henry Brown and Deymony Smith; “The LoShaye Step,” by LoShaye Davis; “Double Dutch Queens,” by Destiny Cotton and Tiffiany Terry; and “Wheelbarrow Workout” by Ar’Manni Pretlow.

The full story — including more information about Live It Learn It — will appear in the May edition of East of the River newspaper. In the meantime, visit their website or call 202-546-6223 for more information.

A community Kidumenatry showing is scheduled for April 30, 1:30 p.m., at River Terrace Elementary School, 420 34th St., NE., 202-724-4589.