Women in Manufacturing

Gr 9 Up—Women in Manufacturing starts off great with a lively tune and a focus on generating wealth. The film stresses the positive side of the manufacturing industry: creation of jobs, stimulation of the economy, and improvement of the gross domestic product. The 14 women profiled hold jobs in metal fabricating, at a prosthetic-eye company, and as a cast-iron artist, among others. The women speak of optimism, hard work, education, and perseverance. Unfortunately, the strong content is presented in a dull format. There are no live-action shots, only still photos with voiceovers. The hoop dance manufacturer does not hoop dance and the welder does not weld. You see the people holding their products, but not producing or using them. The teaching guide, though, is excellent. It is filled with quotes and many discussion questions. I would recommend using the guide first, finding the quotes that will appeal to students, then showing a short clip. Although the film is only 15 minutes long, it is packed with so many different careers it is best to slow down and feature just two or three at a time. With such advanced technology available, the film's presentation leaves much to be desired.—Ellen Frank, Flushing High School, Queens, New York