Lesson plan:

In this episode Mike is the central figure in the story and it is his feelings and emotions which are explored in the story. Play the opening scenes up until the point when Shane arrives. Replay the scene in which Mike has an altercation with his father.

Analyse the narrative devices

Examine how the emotional conflict is communicated to the viewer. Look at:

• the physical space which is maintained between them,
• the avoidance of eye contact.
  

Now replay the scene in which Marie Colbert (Nikki's mother) is explaining her plans for the seeds. Contrast this with the previous scene. Look at:

• the physical contact between the family members
• the framing of Nikki and her mother
• the physical distance between Nikki and her mother.

Have students summarise the ways in which conflict can be expressed through the visuals as well as the dialogue.

Use the points above as a guide to examining how the growing relationship between Nikki and Shane is presented visually.

Analyse the narrative techniques

Replay, without sound, the climactic scene in which Mike gets the messages from outer space. Use this as an opportunity to test the extent to which the sound effects and music contribute to the atmosphere of tension and excitement.
Ask students to count the number of shots in this scene and measure the average length of each shot.
Discuss the contribution of the pace and editing to the establishment of the mood. Together fast editing and the sound track create an air of excitement.
Compare this scene with a climactic scene from the X Files or a hospital drama to demonstrate the importance of editing in creating mood.

Explore characterisation
Shane is described by both Maggie and Mike as a 'dork.' What elements of his behaviour or appearance lead them to make this description? Why did the filmmakers make Shane a boy with glasses? Is the episode reproducing negative stereotypes of scientists? How are scientific types usually presented in films?