“P.O.V.” Batman: The Animated Series. Dir. Kevin Altieri, Writ. Mitch Brian, Sean Catherine Derek, Laren Bright, Prod. Bruce Timm. DVD. Warner Brothers. 2004
In this episode of Batman: The Animated Series we are introduced to three Gotham City Police officers: Detective Bullock and Officers Renee Montoya and Wilkes. The story is told from each of their unique perspectives, and their interrogator, Hackle, doesn’t believe them and suspends each of the officers. On her way home, Montoya unravels the case. She rescues Batman at the scene of a crime, and clears her name and the other two officers.
I really like the “Roshamon” style story this episode offers and I think it’s a neat way to introduce perspective to the students. Many of my students had super hero themed folders or backpacks, so I think they would enjoy seeing something they are familiar with as part of the curriculum. Plus, many of my students from last year thought it was funny that I was so into superheroes and we made a lot of jokes about it. This seems like a cool way to add some fun, personality, and cover a topic all at the same time, and it would work well in tandem with the “True Story of the Three Little Pigs.”
I can imagine that you have a lot to share about superheroes in your classroom. It's a strength that you should use for all it's worth! The True Story... is another great one to use for teaching multiple perspectives. You can transfer it to critically reading anything, including the news. I also liked to use it with Faulkner or Kingsolver who do a wonderful job of writing from the perspectives of multiple characters. That takes talent, not to mention it can be a humbling experience to step in the shoes of another.
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