Literacy App Social Animations (EdTech Engagement Content)

Project Overview

This project aimed to raise awareness around the children’s literacy crisis in the United States by highlighting phonemic awareness, a foundational skill for learning to read.

The goal was to create a short, viral-friendly video featuring all the sounds of the English language spoken in 10 seconds, designed to spark curiosity, encourage participation in a TikTok challenge, and motivate viewers to learn more about the FUNetix reading app.

Process & Collaboration

I joined the project as a motion graphics designer after the illustrations were completed and the initial live-action footage had been filmed. Working closely with FUNetix’s Executive Director, Kali Woodward, I focused on transforming the existing assets into a visually engaging, platform-appropriate video optimized for short-form social media.

The illustrations used in the project were created by Elizabeth Martin. My role was to bring these static elements together with live-action footage through motion, sound, and compositing to create a cohesive and energetic final piece.

Challenges & Solutions

Challenge 1: Improving Visual Focus

The initial video footage included elements that could distract viewers, such as clothing with visible text and brightly colored nail polish, which pulled attention away from the phonemic sounds being demonstrated.

Solution: After identifying these distractions, I requested a new video recording to ensure a cleaner, more focused visual experience. This allowed the audience to concentrate on the spoken sounds without competing visual noise.

Challenge 2: Rasterized Illustration Files

The provided illustration files were rasterized and did not include layers, limiting traditional animation techniques.

Solution: To create the illusion of movement, I extended body parts beyond their resting positions and concealed them in final frames, simulating motion through careful masking and timing. I also added new visual elements, such as flowers, to enrich the scenes and support more dynamic animation.

Challenge 3: Adapting to a New Platform

The project was initially planned for YouTube’s horizontal format but later shifted to TikTok’s vertical format, requiring a significant change in composition.

Solution: To accommodate the vertical layout, I expanded the video background and introduced additional visual elements that preserved balance and clarity while maintaining the original concept.

Challenge 4: Capturing Attention on TikTok

On TikTok, where countless videos compete for attention within seconds, a traditional explainer-style background risked being overlooked.

Solution: By using a green screen setup, I was able to place the presenter into a dynamic virtual environment inspired by FUNetix’s interface. This approach created a more visually engaging experience tailored to short attention spans while reinforcing the product’s visual identity.

My Role

• Visual Concept Development: Adapted existing assets into a cohesive short-form social video
• Motion Design & Animation: Animated rasterized illustrations and live-action footage
• Chroma Key & Compositing: Integrated green screen footage into custom environments
• Sound Design: Added sound effects to enhance rhythm and engagement
• Collaboration: Worked closely with FUNetix leadership and illustration partners

Technical Details

Tools Used: After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, Media Encoder

Key Takeaways

Early alignment with all project stakeholders is critical—holding a kickoff conversation around goals, platform requirements, and constraints helps avoid rework and enables a faster, more efficient production process.