Bridgestone Multimedia Review

Road to Independence

Is it “Plain Truth” or “Common Sense”? Was the Declaration signed on July 4th or in August? Was everyone in agreement or was there opposition among the group? Calculated plans or rash decisions? If you are looking for an accurate way to teach the Declaration of Independence, this animated film may be exactly what you need.  It is said to have set the record straight and in a way easily depicted to the audience.

More than just animated…As you can see in the following clip, the animation is different from your typical cartoon.  My children thought the style was unusual at first but grew to find it interesting.  I do not feel as though I am watching an animated film when I am watching it.  It is not a “child’s” movie in the sense that the story is not scaled down for a child’s understanding.

I recommend this film for ages 9 and up. It is lengthy and should be divided into segments for younger audiences.  (approximately 136 minutes long!) I plan to make it into a week-long study for my bunch to reap the maximum benefits.  Depending on the extent of your studies, it could be divided and utilized as a supplement in extensive lessons.

This is a must have if you will be teaching American History to your children this year.

Faith of Our Fathers

Where did  “Wall of Separation Come From?” Who was to be limited? What was being protected? How could the intentions of our founding fathers be twisted and turned into the interpretations of today?

This DVD takes a look at the intentions of our founding fathers, the legal actions that have challenged them, and the interpretations that have drastically changed our government and education systems over the past seventy years.

I watched this documentary without my children as it is not designed for the attention span of a child. The recommended audience would need a foundation of American History and understanding in order to follow the content. Thus,  I believe this DVD can be used in teaching a focused high school student. (There is a comparison to religious practices being pushed behind closed doors like viewing pornography. It is a brief remark made during an interview)

I enjoyed this documentary. Even with my bunch interrupting me repeatedly, I was still able to follow it.  I look forward to watching it again with my husband when my children are asleep (smile).

Mike’s Inspiration Station

 My oldest daughter LOVES art and all things creative.  Upon arrival of these DVD’s she immediately stormed off with them, plopped them into our DVD player, and grabbed some blank paper!

Today the girls took to the tv to make cartoons. Afterwards they gave their drawings to our two year old and he knew exactly what they were.  Jackie was excited to see that even the baby could tell what she had made! They are looking forward to making the clay dogs tomorrow.

These are great starter videos for you if you haven’t used an art program in the past or for elementary grade levels.  He moves a little fast so make sure you have your DVD player remote control handy to pause him when necessary. He touches on drawing, cartoons, pastels, sculpting, and crafts… a great variety for your children’s enjoyment.

 *Disclaimer: I was given the complimentary DVD’s featured above from Bridgestone Multimedia Group for the purpose of facilitating my review. No monetary compensation was given. All opinions expressed herein are unbiased and not influenced by the developing company or its affiliates in any way.*