Extended Diploma in Creative Media Production and Technology
Project Proposal
| Candidate Name | Faith Angela Saunders-Beckwith |
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| Pathway | Film and TV |
| Project Title | The Secret Life of Tortoises |
| Section 1: Rationale (approx. 150 words) |
| Throughout the past year, I have explored documentaries in-depth through various projects. Within Unit 9, I created a documentary on endometriosis, which allowed me to develop my storytelling skills, learn how to handle sensitive topics, and refine my approach to structuring engaging narratives. Additionally, in my multi-camera unit, I took on the role of a producer, where I gained experience in organisation, coordination, and overseeing the creative vision of a projec[BR1] t. The skill I developed most throughout these experiences was my ability to plan and execute a cohesive documentary while balancing informative and entertaining content.
For The Secret Life of Tortoises, I want to expand my skill set by incorporating animation. Animation[BR2] [BR3] will add a playful, creative element to the documentary, helping to bring the tortoises’ personalities to life in a way that live footage alone might not capture. My previous experiences in documentary-making and production have directly influenced this project, as I aim to combine structured storytelling with new creative techniques to present a both entertaining and educational insight into the hidden world of Hermann tortoises.
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| Section 2: Project Concept[BR4] (approx. 200 words) |
| The Hermann tortoise is often perceived as slow and uninteresting, but in reality, these fascinating reptiles exhibit unique behaviours, social interactions, and problem-solving abilities. Inspired by The Hidden Life of Pets, this documentary aims to challenge common misconceptions by showcasing the secret world of tortoises in a fun and engaging way. By incorporating animation, close-up macro shots, and a personal perspective featuring my own tortoises, [BR5] this documentary will provide both entertainment and education. Many nature documentaries focus on exotic wildlife, but few highlight the intriguing lives of common pets like tortoises. This project seeks to bridge that gap, offering audiences a fresh perspective on these ancient creatures and their hidden complexities.
The Secret Life of Tortoises[BR6] [BR7] is a five-minute short documentary that blends live-action footage with animation to reveal the personality and behaviours of Hermann tortoises. The documentary will begin with an engaging introduction, using animation to depict a humorous, exaggerated version of a tortoise’s daily life, contrasting it with their real behaviours. Macro shots[BR8] will provide an intimate look at their feeding habits, showcasing the textures and movements that often go unnoticed. A key highlight will be a “star moment” featuring my own tortoises, capturing their interactions, feeding, and problem-solving skills. Through playful narration and engaging visuals, the documentary will explore topics such as their intelligence, routines, and natural instincts. The film will also include subtle sound design, enhancing the audience’s connection to the tortoises’ tiny yet fascinating world.
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| Section 3: Evaluation (approx. 150 words) |
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Success will be measured by the documentary’s ability to entertain and educate its audience. Viewer engagement, whether through direct feedback or[BR9] social media interactions, will indicate its effectiveness. Additionally, I will assess how well the animation, macro shots, and storytelling complement each other to create a compelling narrative. [BR10] If the documentary sparks curiosity about tortoises and encourages a deeper appreciation for them, it will have achieved its goal. Finally, reflecting on the production process—what worked well and what could be improved—will provide valuable insights for future projects.[BR11]
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| Proposed Research Sources and Bibliography (Harvard Format) (minimum 10) |
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TimeTable:
| Week | Date Week Beginning | Activity / What you are intending to do – including independent study | Resources / What you will need to do it – including access to workshops |
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1 |
10th March 2025
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This week I will be Focusing on my Context Page which will consist of my Proposal, BIF and Swot Analysis. I will also begin my Website development on WordPress so I can present all of my work in one place. |
To complete my context page I will need to use the software Word. I will also be using Google and WordPress to create my website where I can transfer any work I have completed on Word. |
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2 |
17th March 2025
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This week I intend to begin my Research Page which will consist of both Primary Research (Focus Group Surveys, ) and Secondary Research (Documentary Modes, Case Studies). |
For my Research Page I will be using a combination of Google and Books to provide me with information. |
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3 |
24th March 2025
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This week I will go into further depth with my Research Page including annotations and explanations as to how my research has helped develop my ideas. |
The same as Last week I will be using a combination of Google and Books to provide me with information. |
| 4 |
31st March 2025
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This week I will begin my Practical Skills Page, I will start by Trial & Testing. This will require me to complete equipment booking forms and do test shots of equipment to see how it will perform when recording. |
I will need access to equipment such as a DSLR Camera, Tripod, Battery, SD Card, ** Microphone and * * Lights. The software I will be using for my animation is FlipAClip. |
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5 |
7th April 2025
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This week I will start my Problem Solving Page which will be a reflection of improvements I can make from my Trial and Testing and anything else I have discovered that requires improvement throughout my FMP.
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6 |
14th April 2025
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Although it is Half Term, I will begin my Practical Skills Page which will demonstrate the shots, equipment and techniques I used when filming and how effective it was. |
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7 |
21st April 2025
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This week is also Half Term and I will continue to dvevelop my Practical Skills page by demonstrating how I am editing my content and what software I used to achieve this. |
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8 |
28th April 2025
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This week I will refine my Practical Skill page by demonstrating my Editing and the Software used. I will also develop my Problem Solving as I show how I overcame any struggles during the Filming and Editing Process.
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9 |
5th May 2025
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This week I will be finalising my project and making any last minute adjustments as it will be Exhibition week where I will present my work and can receive feedback. |
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10 |
12th May 2025
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This week I will be writing my Evaluation where I will use the feedback I have received from my audience and Exhibition week whilst reflecting on my overall project and its success rate. I will also Submit my work on the 16th May ready to be assessed.
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[BR1]How is this relevant to your chosen discipline?
[BR2]What type of animation?
[BR3]and why?
[BR4]discuss target audience
[BR5]What equipment will you need?
[BR6]Briefly mention research topics you will cover and planning before going into production and why
[BR7]This could lead to potential trial and testing
[BR8]Talk about your post production process
[BR9]Be more specific
[BR10]I would talk about trial and testing animations etc
[BR11]Talk about how you are planning to document your final reflection
[BR12]Be specific
[BR13]Be specific
Better Ideas Faster (BIF):