In this learning experience, learners will be challenged to make an aspect of a haunt. The course includes a student-facing mini-series of videos led by Bill McCoy, curricular activities, and a classroom presentation available for download. The curriculum will serve as a powerful way to bring industry professionals and world-class storytelling standards into your classroom.
More About the Curriculum
This learning experience will be useful for teachers who are teaching any of the following:
- Grades 9-12
- English Language Arts;
- Dramatic Arts/Theatre
- Dramatic Writing
Media Arts
Step into the imaginative realm of Bill McCoy, an industry titan in storytelling and special effects, and unravel the techniques that make for unforgettable, hair-raising experiences. Learners will journey through a well-structured curriculum of enlightening videos and practical worksheets, covering ground from the psychology of fear to the art of character creation and effective marketing. Ideal for enthusiasts in storytelling, special effects, or haunting adventures, this course is a holistic primer on the skills and insights needed to manifest eerie worlds that captivate audiences.
TIME COMMITMENT
3 - 4 hours, divided into 5 lessons. This could all be done at one time or spread over multiple days depending on your unique schedule.
- Lesson 1 Fear as a tool for Storytelling - approx. 45 min
- Lesson 2 Crafting a Haunt Story and Theme - approx. 45 min
- Lesson 3 Designing Characters and Merchandising - approx. 45 min
- Lesson 4 Marketing and Finalizing the Haunt Design - approx. 45 min
- Lesson 5 Design One Aspect of Your Haunt - approx. 45 min
- (Optional) Extension
- Extension 1 Haunting Field Trip
- Extension 2 Virtual Haunt Experience - approx. 60 min
- Extension 3 Scary Makeup Techniques - approx. 60 min
ASSESSMENT RESOURCES
Formative and/or summative rubrics are provided in the downloads section, but they may be edited to incorporate specific standards, instructions, or additional requirements as needed to teach your subject area. Teachers are encouraged to use this lesson as a tool for creative literacy to teach their classroom standards
Curriculum
Standards Addressed
- Original Dramatic Writing
- Character Creation
- Dramaturgical Contexts
- Industry Connections
- Media Presentation
Artistic - Conceptualization
- Informative Writing
- Coherent Writing
Introduction
Course Overview
About Your Instructor
Lessons
Lesson 1 Fear as a tool for Storytelling - approx. 45 min
Lesson 2 Crafting a Haunt Story and Theme - approx. 45 min
Lesson 3 Designing Characters and Merchandising - approx. 45 min
Lesson 4 Marketing and Finalizing the Haunt Design - approx. 45 min
Lesson 5 Design One Aspect of Your Haunt - approx. 45 min
Classroom Presentation
Survey
Course survey and wrap-up
About Your Instructor
Bill McCoy is a master storyteller known for his exceptional work in makeup, special effects, and haunts. As the Creative Director and head of makeup for Traumatica, also known as Festival of Fear in Europa-Park Germany, he brings terrifying visions to life. With an impressive portfolio that includes TV and movies like Zombieland, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter, The Walking Dead, She Hulk, Wanda Vision, and Stranger Things, Bill's special effects artistry has left an indelible mark on film and television. His expertise in prosthetic and animatronic fabrication has brought captivating creatures and immersive worlds to the screen. Bill's dedication to his craft and ability to create transformative experiences have made him an invaluable figure in the realm of makeup and special effects, captivating audiences worldwide with his storytelling prowess.
