Apples and Oranges

Subject: Personal & Social Education
Level: Secondary
Age Group: 11 - 14
Order Number: 3074

'Apples and Oranges' - A resource for bullying and gender issues.

'Perceived homosexuality is the second most likely trigger for bullying...Suicide and self-harm rates among gay and lesbian adolescents are two to three times higher than for their heterosexual peers...80% of schools are aware of incidents of homophobic bullying.' TES 28.05.2004

This 2003 video is an important and highly useful film by the National Film Board of Canada. It comes with a booklet of teacher resources on how to use the film. In their press release the Board says: 'Apples and Oranges' is an 18-minute film...that addresses some of the harmful effects of homophobic name calling on children. It is a fun and thought provoking video in which children's paintings magically transform into two animated adventures. It is directed by Genie award winner Lynne Fernie and produced by Tamara Lynch for the National Film Board. 'Apples and Oranges' raises and explores the key issue of bullying, especially as it applies to homophobic behaviour, an area which, is too often ignored in schools. It is a very accessible addition to school resources due to this focus, especially in relation to attitudes to gay/lesbian people as shown through name calling in a school setting. It also acts to celebrate diversity due to the range of social backgrounds and ethnicity shown.

In the teacher booklet (written in the UK) a range of activities have been suggested to help ensure students maximise their learning. These activities include group work, discussion, drama, other films and crosswords.

Need more than one video or DVD?

We can licence you to make up to five copies for use within your school or college.