RESOURCE: New Film Study Guide for THE KING'S SPEECH

[Frank W. Baker]

A film study guide, movie clips and more are available at the UK-based FilmEducation.org site

[Ryan Goble]

Ohhh, that's a cool one - thanks Frank!

[Sally Lehmann Hall]

 

This is a wonderful study guide for a fabulous movie. In addition to all of the connections to language and to media, I think it is also a great film for looking at Social/Emotional Learning. In particular, I noticed these points regarding relationship building.

--Bertie has a speech impediment that affects how he views himself and how others perceive him.

--Bertie's problems with literal speaking also inhibit his finding a more metaphorical "voice" with which to assert and express himself.

--People in his life choose to respond differently to Bertie's challenge (consider both his wife and his brother).

--Bertie and Elizabeth find the strength to look beyond themselves to address the problem, demonstrating the value of interdependence and vulnerability.

--Bertie and his therapist negotiate a strong relationship step by step. Each ventures outside his comfort zone, and each holds his ground on some issues, but is willing to compromise on others as trust is established and tested.

--Although Bertie and his therapist tackle Bertie's speech problem, the issue goes far beyond Bertie himself, involving the leadership, well being, and inspiration of an entire nation of people.