COMM 1500: Introduction to Interpersonal Communication
FILM ANALYSIS PROJECT
You will take part in a group film analysis and will present the findings to the class. Imagine that your group is a
consulting firm that specializes in Interpersonal Communication. I have hired the firm to observe different
encounters between individuals. Using what you’ve learned throughout the course, I am asking your firm to
analyze their behaviors, as they relate to interpersonal communication. Afterwards, you should provide
suggestions for improvement.
The encounters that you observe will actually be from a film of your choice. Think back to our class Film Analysis
of Crash. You will do a similar analysis, but on a larger scale. Below are the guidelines for the project:
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There should be FOUR members to a group (NOTE: If the size of the class requires a 3 or 5 person group,
I will make this announcement and will offer the slot to the class on a ‘first come, first serve’ basis. In
addition, the page requirement and presentation time requirement would increase to reflect the larger
group size)
Student will submit a proposal form to Dr. G. The form will include their film selection (for approval),
group name and name of each individual member to Dr. G. More information about this sheet will be
announced closer to the due date.
The group will present an oral presentation (16 to 18 minutes with PowerPoint) followed by a Q&A
session. A copy of the PowerPoint slides should be submitted on the day of the presentation. Your
presentation should also include a BRIEF synopsis of the film followed by your analysis.
o PowerPoints must be emailed to Dr. G by 8 p.m. on the day before the group’s presentation. The
group’s PowerPoint should be sent to Powerpoints2Goldman@gmail.com. Prezis are also
allowed and the link would be sent to the same email address.
Each group member is responsible for typing a 1-3 page paper summarizing their portion of the
presentation and explaining why they feel (or do not feel) the film was an effective “guidepost” for
interpersonal communication.
Business-Casual attire is required.
Presentations will take place during the last two weeks of class (the week of April 21st and the week of
April 28th)
Students most analyze a minimum of 2 encounters from the movie.
Students most discuss topics from at least 4 of the chapters:
o General Information on Interpersonal Communication (e.g. communication models,
communication process) – Chapter 1
o Self-concept and Perceptions – Chapter 2
o Culture and Identity – Chapter 3
o Verbal Communication – Chapter 4
o Nonverbal Communication – Chapter 5
o Listening – Chapter 6
o Emotions – Chapter 7
o Disclosure – Chapter 8
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o Conflict – Chapter 9
o Close Relationships – Chapter 10
o Technology – Chapter 11
Students can choose to discuss each topic related to each encounter, or they can choose to discuss
specific encounters with specific topics. Remember, you must discuss these topics as they relate to
Interpersonal Communication.
Students must use terminology from the textbook and most cite specific examples from the film. You
can describe your examples, use pictures, or use SHORT video clips. Use detail to show me that you
understand how this material applies outside of the classroom.
Students will also submit an evaluation form explaining how each group member contributed. These
forms will available on Dr. G’s faculty webpage and will be submitted directly to the following email
address: goldmangroupevaluations@gmail.com. These forms can also be dropped off at my office. They
will not be shared with the other group members.
You will need to work outside of class. However, we have a group project session built into our class
schedule during the latter part of the semester. I am also available for questions throughout the process
via email or during my office hours.
Students will also serve as effective audience members! You will be required to critique a couple of your
classmates and ask a question during the Q&A session. Specific directions will be given on the
presentation day.