Teachers are always looking for ways to keep their students engaged and excited about learning. And what better way to do that than by showing them educational movies? There are tons of great films out there that cover a wide range of topics, from history and science to art and English. So no matter what subject you teach, you’re sure to find a movie that your students will love.
Here are ten of the best educational movies your students must watch at least once:
#1: October Sky
This inspiring movie is based on the true story of Homer Hickam, a coal miner’s son who became a NASA scientist. October Sky follows Homer’s journey from high school dropout to successful rocket engineer and is a great way to encourage your students to pursue their dreams no matter what may happen.
#2: A Beautiful Mind
A Beautiful Mind is a biographical drama based on the life of mathematician John Nash. The film covers Nash’s struggles with schizophrenia and his eventual Nobel Prize-winning work in game theory. A Beautiful Mind is an excellent film for students interested in math and science.
#3: Freedom Writers
Freedom Writers is a drama about the true story of Erin Gruwell, a teacher who inspired her students to change their lives. Freedom Writers is about Gruwell as she teaches a group of at-risk students in Long Beach, California, and helps them develop their writing skills. Both teachers and students will appreciate this film.
#4: Dead Poet’s Society
This classic film portrays the story of Mr. Keating, an English teacher at an all-boys preparatory school, and his students. Dead Poet’s Society covers themes of nonconformity, individuality, and the importance of literature. Any student who loves reading and writing will enjoy this movie.
#5: Hoosiers
If you want to show a sports-oriented movie, Hoosiers is the one to go with. The film follows coach Norman Dale as he leads his team to victory against all odds. Sports fans in the classroom will love this movie and its inspiring message.
#6: Lean on Me
Lean on Me is the true story of Joe Clark, a controversial high school principal who turns a failing school around. The themes of this movie include leadership, education, and relationships. The idea of leadership is really emphasized in this movie, so it’s perfect for students who are looking to become future leaders.
#7: Stand and Deliver
A classic Hispanic educational movie, Stand and Deliver, is based on the true story of Jaime Escalante, a high school teacher who taught his students to excel in calculus. The movie shows Escalante as he helps his students succeed against all odds.
#8: Mr. Holland’s Opus
This heartwarming movie depicts the life of Glenn Holland, a musician who becomes a high school music teacher. Mr. Holland’s Opus is about Holland as he teaches and mentors his students, many of whom go on to have successful music careers of their own.
#9: The Miracle Worker
The Miracle Worker is an intriguing movie about the relationship between teacher and student. Anne Sullivan is hired to teach Helen Keller, a young girl who is deaf and blind. The film is all about their journey as Anne Sullivan helps Helen Keller learn to communicate.
#10: The Karate Kid
The Karate Kid is always a favorite film about a boy who learns self-defense from his karate teacher. The Karate Kid follows Daniel as he trains with Mr. Miyagi to compete in the All-Valley Karate Tournament. A classic martial arts movie that all ages tend to love.
There are so many great educational movies out there that it’s hard to choose just ten. But these are definitely some of the best educational movies for younger children, and your students will love them! Kids’ movies with important life lessons are always an excellent activity for the classroom.
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