This smart documentary explores the intimidating terrain of girlhood by following three 12-year-olds over the period of one year. As these girls move from childhood to maturity, it's clear that peer pressure is an important influence, but as the films shows, the greatest influence in a young girl's life is family.
Filmmaker Victoria King's creative approach, including the use of "diary-cam" footage, not only follows the girls but allows them to question the world in their own voices. Ultimately, the film reveals the complexities of being 12, both satisfying our curiosity and inviting us to ask, What happens next?
Ages 10 to 13
Study Guide - Guide 1
Ethics and Religious Culture - Religious Diversity/Heritage
Family Studies/Home Economics - Adolescent Development
Family Studies/Home Economics - Parenting
Ask students to compare the different parenting styles seen in the film. They can reflect on the difficulties and benefits of being 12. Lead a class discussion in which students offer their thoughts about there being differences between 12-year-old girls depending on where they live. As an example, can students identify similarities and differences in attitudes with these girls in Newfoundland versus those held by 12-year-olds where they live? Read some stories from the book, Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul. After sharing some of the stories, have students write about their own experiences.