Feature length films are usually 90 minutes or longer and have been made for television or produced
for release to commercial movie houses prior to being shown on television or sold or rented in a video
format. The teacher may decide to use feature length films as part of instruction if the following
conditions are met:
The program content is timely, age appropriate as determined by the Motion Picture Association
of America rating system, and related to current instructional objectives;
Only one feature length film may be used in any course during the year;
Strict adherence to fair use guidelines under copyright law must be maintained. See the attached
copyright guidelines for pre-recorded (commercial) video tapes;
The teacher accepts responsibility for the decision to use the feature length film;
The department chairperson’s and the administrator’s signature on the Materials Evaluation Form
indicate that there is agreement with the teacher’s use of this material in the classroom.
A school-level committee composed of at least three classroom teachers must evaluate the actual
film/video and complete a Materials Evaluation form. It is especially important to check all criteria
and appropriate grade level(s), write comments as to how the film supports, enhances, or extends
instruction to achieve course objectives. The evaluation form must include a minimum of three signatures
and must be signed by the Department Chairperson and the Administrator/Designee. A copy of the evaluation
form is to be kept on file in the school. The evaluation form along with the teacher’s lesson plan must
be forwarded to the appropriate coordinator for final review and approval. If a feature length film is
recommended it is approved for your school only.
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