Classroom Close-up, NJ : Trebuchet

SYNOPSIS:

Students from Halsted Middle School in Newton built a 30 foot tall trebuchet, a catapult that can launch pumpkins hundreds of yards through the air. Technology teacher Jim Hoffmann encouraged his students to build the medieval weapon, nicknamed "The Hilltop Terror", as part of a cross-curricular experience. Through the project, the students learned about history, physics, construction techniques, and business skills.

PRODUCER'S COMMENTARY:

I produced this segment for the 2009-2010 season of the NJN public television series, Classroom Close-up, NJ, a 30-minute weekly magazine program focusing on innovative education happening in New Jersey's public schools.

The location segments were filmed by the show's DP, Ed Waters, during one day of taping at three locations in Newton, NJ (which you can read more about in the BMG blog). I was also fortunate to get some great home movie footage from the teachers and students we interviewed to help tell their story. Editing was done on Avid Media Composer with scoring in SonicFire Pro.