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Creating One-of-a-Kind Plays: Custom Scripts Available Now

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Here’s a little story for you concerning this blog post, creating one of a kind plays: custom scripts available now.

Creating One-of-a-Kind Plays: Custom Scripts Available Now

      Recently, when I was reading Facebook groups posts, a teacher posted asking for a script for a Veterans Day program.
Since I have previously experience creating a program like this (I wrote and directed three scripts for a diversity celebration in honor of Martin Luther King in Columbia, MO.), I jumped at the chance to help her!

She mentioned she was bored with her usual Veterans Day program and wanted something new and different.
As you might expect, we emailed each other a bit with me asking the usual questions: size of cast, grade level performing, length of piece, etc.  Lastly, I asked her if there was anything special she’d like me to include? Her suggestion was to use veteran’s letters as a focus, but that she was open to other ideas. 
    Not surprisingly, I had no trouble coming up with a storyline. Plus, the idea of using letters in the play was a terrific one.  Additionally,  they were easy to find and utilize as I incorporate into the script.

Creating One-of-a-Kind Plays: Custom Scripts Available Now

    I went to work on the script and two days later, I came up with “Letters Across Time“. ($4.99) The resource includes a letter to the teacher with suggestions for mounting the production, the script and four photographs of the letter writers. 
Creating One-of-a-Kind Plays: Custom Scripts Available Now

The Custom Play Script Story

    The story: A teacher and her students invite a military veteran to speak to their class in celebration of Veterans Day. Four students read quotes from letters of various members of the armed forces. These letters writers are George Washington, Franklin Roosevelt, a Civil War soldier and a present-day female soldier.
     Additionally, the students ask the veteran questions.  He shares about his experiences in the war. The audience experiences first-hand what it is like to be in the military serving in a war time through the use of images of the four letter writers,
Creating One-of-a-Kind Plays: Custom Scripts Available Now
If you would like a customized bundle of my Dramamommaspeaks products, check out this blog post: The Reasons I Offer Customized Theatre Lesson Bundles

Do you need a custom script?


After writing this script, and posting to my Dramamommaspeaks store on TPT, I  got to thinking…maybe someone else needs a particular program written for them?  

   YOU CAN ASK THE SAME THING OF ME! (Guess what?  Requesting this customized program is at no extra cost to you!)

Do you need something to celebrate:
  • Martin Luther King
  • National Hispanic Heritage Month
  • Women’s History month
  • Native American Indian/Alaska Native Heritage Month
  • A day of historical significance in your state?
  • A day of historical significance to your community?
Or do you have another idea? Perhaps you’d like a radio theater script written about a particular topic?  Here is one your students will enjoy:  The Monkey’s Paw
File:Nikolay Ge 019.jpeg

Five Reasons for a Custom Script

    If you are like me, it may take you a little extra thought to consider how a custom script could be of benefit to you.  But here are five reasons it will help you:

1. Tailored to student abilities: A custom script can match the skill level and interests of their students.  Thus ensuring every child has a part that suits them.

2. Aligned with curriculum goals: Teachers can request scripts that reinforce specific educational objectives.  These could be historical events, literary themes, or social-emotional learning.

3. Saves time and effort: Teachers don’t have to spend hours adapting existing material to fit their classroom needs. The script is ready to go.

4. Culturally relevant content: Custom scripts can reflect the unique cultural backgrounds and diversity of the class.  This makes the material more engaging and relatable.

5. Fosters creativity and engagement: A customized play script can include topics or themes that spark student interest. Consequently, this fosters  deeper engagement and encouraging participation in the arts.

Sounds like a win-win to me.  You, too?

Looking for unique, engaging drama lessons?  Check out this new bundle: Middle School Curriculum Volume 3

Just email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com
Have you ever been asked to present something for a special celebration at your school?  I’d love to hear about it.
Dramamommaspeaks Blog Author Deborah Baldwin

 

Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

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 Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

If you are a new drama teacher for middle school, you may find that although the students are excited they have no idea what to expect.  Additionally,  they may be reluctant to participate or even disinterested (how could anyone be disinterested in theater?) because your class could be a pre-elective and everyone takes it.  Or maybe the school counselor plopped them in your class so they get their arts credit completed. I can help you! This post concerns superhero drama: captivating classroom techniques.

This happened to me. Many years ago, when I discovered I had students that fit this aforementioned description, I completely reorganized my lesson plans.  Instead of the traditional lesson you might teach beginners (intro. to theater, breathing exercises, monologues and duets) I  taught with non-threatening and more group exercises. One thing that always worked with them was superheroes.

Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

Superheroes have always fascinated audiences, capturing the imagination of both young and old. Their tales of courage, conflict, and victory make them perfect tools for engaging students in the drama classroom. Simply put, super heroes are a safe subject with them. Using superhero themes can spark students’ creativity.  In addition it can make learning more relatable, and deepen their understanding of dramatic arts. Here’s how you can leverage superheroes to create an engaging drama classroom experience.

The Magnetic Appeal of Superheroes

Superheroes embody themes like good versus evil, identity, and transformation and everyone understands those themes.  Additionally, they  are rich in dramatic potential. By incorporating these familiar and exciting characters into drama lessons, you can immediately capture students’ attention and make learning more engaging.

Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

Super Hero Lesson Number One

Start by analyzing popular superheroes. Discuss their backstories, motivations, strengths, and weaknesses. This familiar territory makes character analysis more accessible and exciting for students.  Plus, it  helps them understand the nuances of character development.

The first lesson I teach them is Storytelling with Postcards Super Hero Themed. Students are placed in small groups.  Their challenge is to select five postcard cards at random from a box or hat.  The group creates a story about a super hero integrating the postcards images, words, or themes into the story.  But, the story must be about you as the super hero. Talk about fun! Students enjoy telling the story together–see?  No performing alone.  For more information, check out the lesson here.

Lesson Plan Number Two: Costume Design and Stagecraft

Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

Designing sets and costumes for superhero-themed performances can enhance the visual appeal of drama and teach students about stagecraft. This hands-on approach can make the learning experience more engaging and memorable. Encouraging students to create their own superheroes taps into their creativity.  It allows them to apply their understanding of character development in a very relaxed manner.  This activity not only engages students but also helps them develop their storytelling abilities. Plus, students can study costume design at the same time. Check out this resource here.

Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

Lesson Number Three:  Playwriting and the Monologue

Superhero stories are rich with conflict and moral dilemmas, perfect for exploring plot development and thematic elements in drama. Discussing these common superhero conflicts can make complex dramatic concepts more accessible and engaging. Another lesson which they enjoy is writing a monologue as themselves as the super hero. You might think this would be too difficult for your students, but if you give them a framework they will be successful.  Check out this resource here.

Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

 Lesson Number Four: Encouraging Movement and Tableaux

Superhero scenarios are perfect for practicing movement and tableaux–two crucial components in drama. Tableaux is an easy concept for everyone to understand.  There are many ways to demonstrate it through the use of super heroes–maybe a group shows the moment Super Man protects someone from a monster?  Or Wonder Woman holds back the ocean so that a group of boaters aren’t drowned by it?

Students are familiar with super heroes jumps, falls, lunges and spins.  By studying movement using the super hero theme, students yet again feel comfortable moving around the room as they learn various elements of movement.  These scenarios often involve unexpected situations, requiring quick thinking and adaptability, which keeps students on their toes. Using those lessons to lead into studying tableau, makes for effortless studying of tableaux. Check out this lesson here.

Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

Lesson Number Five:  Improvisation

Superhero scenarios are perfect for practicing improvisation, a crucial skill in drama. These scenarios often involve unexpected situations and require quick thinking and adaptability, By doing so, this keeps students on their toes. My favorite way to teach improvisation to novices is through a few warm up exercises.   This exercise is titled “My Three Headed Monster” but it would be just as fun if the monster became a three headed super hero.  Pick it up here (page one) and  here (page two) Again, I have found this is always a successful teaching experience because students sit together on the stage. Although they are speaking spontaneously they must work out answers together.  

Reflective Learning

Make sure that after each activity you  encourage students to reflect on their performances.  Process is everything! Discussing what they learned and how they felt embodying their superheroes can deepen their understanding and appreciation of drama. Grab this bundle which can last over five days Super  here.

‘ Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

Super Hero Quotes as Writing Prompts: Lesson Number Six

Using quotes spoken by super heroes for writing prompts is useful in this situation, too. Here are a few I like:

  • “With Great Power, Comes Great Responsibility.” Uncle Ben in Spider Man
  • “Heroes are made by the path they choose, not the powers they are graced with.” Iron Man
  • “You are much stronger than you think you are. Trust me.” Super Man
  • “You don’t need to be a super hero.  You just need to be better than you were yesterday.”
  •  “A true hero isn’t measured by the size of her strength, but by the strength of her heart.” Wonder Woman
  • “The woman who follows the crowd will grow no further than the crowd. The woman who walks alone is likely to find herself in places no one has ever been before.” Super Woman

Using superhero themes in the drama classroom can transform lessons into engaging, imaginative experiences. It is easy to connect dramatic principles to beloved characters. You can make learning more exciting and relatable for students. So, be courageous!  Embrace your inner hero and lead your students on an epic journey through the world of drama, where creativity and engagement soar.

Have you ever taught using a super hero theme to teach concepts? I’d love to hear about it.  Just email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

Woman behind DramaMommaSpeaks

Unveiling Reader’s Theater: What You Never Knew

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Even though I lacked familiarity with Reader’s Theater as a student, once I was a teacher its advantages surpassed any apprehensions I harbored. Let’s talk–unveiling Reader’s Theater: what you never knew. In today’s dynamic educational landscape, teachers are continually exploring innovative methods to engage students and foster deeper understanding.

Unveiling Reader’s Theater: What You Never Knew

One technique gaining popularity is Reader’s Theater.  Reader’s Theater is  a powerful instructional tool that combines reading, performance, and collaborative learning. Particularly in upper elementary classrooms, Reader’s Theater offers numerous benefits, from improving literacy skills to enhancing social and emotional development. Let’s delve into why incorporating Reader’s Theater can be a game-changer for educators and students alike.

Unveiling Reader's Theater: What You Never Knew
Credit Readingrockets.org

Boosting Literacy Skills

One of the most important reasons Reader’s Theater is beneficial is its power in boosting literacy skills.  It provides an interactive platform for students to actively engage with text. By taking on different roles and reading aloud, students develop fluency, comprehension, and expression. According to a study published in The Reading Teacher, students who participated in Reader’s Theater experienced significant gains in reading fluency compared to those who did not. The repetitive reading inherent in rehearsals helps reinforce vocabulary and comprehension, leading to improved reading proficiency over time.

Did you know I have the secret to boosting student engagement?  My new book, “We’re Live! Radio Theater #101” explains my journey to implementing this unique tool in the classroom. Check it out here

Fostering Collaboration and Social Skills

If you were to ask me what is the greatest asset of theater, I’d say its adaptability to integrate into any core subject. However, it wasn’t until I studied for my Masters in Arts Integration that this became glaringly apparent to me.  Any time it is used in the classroom, your students level of engagement increases.  In addition,  collaboration lies at the heart of Reader’s Theater. Working together to interpret scripts, assign roles, and rehearse scenes cultivates teamwork and communication skills. A survey conducted by the National Education Association found that 89% of teachers reported improvements in students’ collaboration skills after implementing Reader’s Theater in their classrooms. Moreover, performing in front of classmates builds confidence and self-esteem while encouraging empathy and appreciation for diverse perspectives.

Enhancing Creativity and Critical Thinking

Reader’s Theater encourages students to think critically and creatively as they interpret characters and scenes. For some students, it is the first time they see a story in a book as something other than words on a page.  The story comes alive! An analysis conducted by the International Journal of Education and the Arts revealed that students engaged in Reader’s Theater demonstrated higher levels of creativity and critical thinking compared to traditional reading instruction. Analyzing text, identifying character motivations, and making decisions about performance elements stimulate higher-order thinking skills. By the way, gifted and talented students groove on unique learning and Reader’s Theater is one way to reach them. 

Unveiling Reader's Theater: What You Never Knew

Addressing Multiple Learning Styles

Every student learns differently, and Reader’s Theater caters to a variety of learning styles. Visual learners benefit from seeing the text come to life through performance, while auditory learners engage with the spoken word and sound effects. According to a report by the American Federation of Teachers, Reader’s Theater accommodates diverse learning styles and promotes inclusive classrooms. By providing a multi-sensory experience, Reader’s Theater ensures that all students have the opportunity to succeed and shine in the classroom.

Cultivating a Love for Literature

Reader’s Theater breathes new life into literature, history, etc. transforming reading assignments into dynamic and memorable experiences. A survey conducted by Scholastic found that 78% of students reported enjoying reading more after participating in Reader’s Theater activities. By engaging students’ imaginations and emotions, Reader’s Theater ignites a passion for storytelling and fosters a lifelong love of reading. As students connect emotionally with characters and narratives, they develop empathy, cultural awareness, and a deeper appreciation for the power of words. A by- product of passively studying another culture through a Reader’s Theater script, encourages students to be more accepting of one another.  Can I prove it?  Nope, I just know from my many years of teaching and directing experience.

Unveiling Reader's Theater: What You Never Knew

Reader’s Theater in the Multicultural Classroom

I am aware of the many challenges our teachers are facing at this point and time.  As a member of several Facebook teacher groups, I hear them lament about their worries and frustrations.  One of their major challenges they are having is keeping the students engaged in their learning.  In addition, the students are unkind to one another to a degree we haven’t seen in our recent past.  I am as concerned about our students’ futures as the teachers.

I can’t fix everything, but I can help.  In my thirty-eight years of teaching, I saw the need for multiculturalism right from the first day of teaching. What is multiculturalism? Simply, put, multiculturalism is defined as allowing many individual cultures to exist within one country. It is the idea that many different types of cultures can exist within one nation.  But how to celebrate the cultures? Many years ago, I began adapting multicultural folk tales into readers theater plays and friend, it works!  Students enjoy learning about other cultures through Reader’s Theater.

Looking for something to celebrate spring?  Pick up The Little Girl and the Winter Whirlwinds here.

Unveiling Reader's Theater: What You Never Knew

The Legend of How the Bee Got Its Stinger Reader’s Theater

For example, I created a Reader’s Theater script for The Legend of How the Bee Got Its Stinger based on a Cherokee Indian legend. The story: Back in ancient times, when the people were purer and could converse with the animals. The Creator would visit with them. The people asked the Creator for something that was “sweet” to the taste. So, the Creator sent the Bee, but the Bee had no stinger. Down came the Bee and it found a suitable tree in which, they could build their hive, live in, produce honey, multiply and feed its young. Soon the people came to the Bee and asked for some of the sweet syrup and the Bee gave each person a container full. The people loved the syrup and greedily ate it, then went back to the Bee for more. What happens next? You’ll just have to purchase the resource to find out! Looking for another Native American story?  Check out:  370 Million Indigenous People Want You to Know About Their Cultures

Unveiling Reader's Theater: What You Never Knew

The Sprightly Tailor Reader’s Theater Unit

The Story of the Sprightly Tailor is another fun one and so unique! This story, from the British Isles, is spooky, scary and funny all at the same time. It is about a swift-footed and energetic (sprightly) tailor who undertakes to sew some trews (trousers) at night, among the haunted ruins of an old church. Along enters a ghost! You’ll just have to see what happens next…You can find it here: Comical Readers Theater Unit The Sprightly Tailor.

Unveiling Reader's Theater: What You Never Knew

Abdullah’s Gold Reader’s Theater Unit

Abdullah’s Gold is a story with a moral which students can understand and readily identify.  Abdullah was one of the richest men in town, but you could easily mistake him for a beggar. It was his theory that since there were so many people out to rob a rich man, it was safe to pretend to be poor. And so he did.

But he really didn’t have to pretend. Stingy to the core he found it very easy to be poor. So what if people sniggered and children called out, “Kanjoos! Kanjoos!” (miser, miser), whenever he passed by in his worn-out clothes. Abdullah became more and more content with his growing pile of money as the years went by. But one night, something happens to Abdullah’s money and things were never the same for him. You can find Abullah’s Gold here.

Unveiling Reader’s Theater: What You Never Knew

Looking for more information about Reader’s Theater?  Check out: Learning Through Reader’s Theater Scripts

You can check out all of my readers theater scripts at: Dramamommaspeaks

As you can see, incorporating Reader’s Theater into the upper elementary classroom offers a wealth of benefits, from enhancing literacy skills to fostering collaboration and creativity. By providing a dynamic and interactive approach to reading instruction, teachers can inspire students to become confident readers, effective communicators, and lifelong learners. Plus, let’s not forget how the study of cultures can encourage students to have a  global perspective and culturally sensitive. Who knows?  You may enjoy it just as much as your students!  At least, that is my hope. Let’s embrace the transformative potential of Reader’s Theater and empower our students to shine on stage and in life.

What Reader’s Theater have you used in your classroom?  What discoveries did you make by implementing it?  I’d love to hear about it.  Contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

Woman behind DramaMommaSpeaks

 

Unlocking Creativity: Teaching Storytelling in the Classroom

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“Unlocking Creativity: Teaching Storytelling in the Classroom” is not just a title, it’s an invitation to explore strategies that make teaching this timeless skill an enriching and transformative experience for both educators and students alike. Let’s dive into the art of storytelling and discover how it opens doors to boundless creativity within the classroom.

Did you know I have the secret to boosting student engagement?  My new book, “We’re Live! Radio Theater #101” explains my journey to implementing this unique tool in the classroom. Check it out here

Unlocking Creativity: Teaching Storytelling in the Classroom

Understanding the Basics of Storytelling:

In my experience, I’ve found that students enjoy storytelling.  In a theater class, it is much lesson threatening than performing a monologue. Consequently, I always include a storytelling unit in my yearly lesson plans. When you begin teaching storytelling to your students, first introduce the fundamental elements of a story. Although your students may be aware of these elements, sometimes a quick review of the key components is necessary.  Reiterate stories which have  characters, setting, plot, conflict, and resolution. Use examples from literature, movies, or real-life situations to illustrate these concepts.  This makes the learning more relatable to your students. Or use storytelling as a warm up exercise for several days.  Check out:  Storytelling Postcard Stories in my TPT store, or my Payhip store.

Unlocking Creativity: Teaching Storytelling in the Classroom

Immersive Storytelling Activities for Early Finishers:

Engage your students in interactive activities that immerse them in the world of storytelling. One idea is to create a storytelling corner in your classroom.  Your early finishers will appreciate this. Encourage them to collaborate on developing and sharing their stories. Again, a reminder of a story’s components  could be useful, especially if students are working independently.  Generally, students need your help in the fleshing out of the story–that is describing settings, characters, and emotions. 

Essentially, you each them the five C’s, Circumstance, Curiosity, Characters, Conversations, and Conflicts that captivate audiences’ interest. The circumstance is all about establishing the scene. A storyteller must provide essential information to their audience including — when, where, and why.

In addition, after a teacher finishes teaching storytelling the culminating activity could be a storytelling day. If you’d like a one week lesson which teaches  storytelling, check out this one at ( Teacherspayteachers.com ) or at my Payhip store).

Unlocking Creativity: Teaching Storytelling in the Classroom

Utilize Technology:

Embrace technology as a tool to enhance storytelling experiences. Platforms like digital storytelling apps, interactive whiteboards, or podcast creation tools can make the process more dynamic. Students can explore multimedia elements to enhance their narratives, including images, music, and sound effects. There are a plethora’s worth of apps. for storytelling whether your students are in lower elementary or high school.  If you are looking for a site where your students can generate stories on line, check out Boomwriter, Nawal, Storybird.

Unlocking Creativity: Teaching Storytelling in the Classroom

 

Encourage Freewriting Sessions:

Foster a love for writing by incorporating freewriting sessions into your lessons. Set aside dedicated time for students to let their imaginations run wild without worrying about grammar or structure. This practice helps them discover their unique voice and allows creativity to flow freely.  The Writing Process, expresses it, “ increases the flow of ideas and reduces the chance that you’ll accidentally censor a good idea. Additionally, it helps to increase fluency second-language learners—i.e., the ability to produce written language easily as opposed to accuracy.”

Unlocking Creativity: Teaching Storytelling in the Classroom

Showcase Diverse Stories:

Introduce a variety of stories from different cultures, genres, and perspectives. Exposing students to diverse narratives  only helps to broaden their understanding of the world.  Additionally, it inspires them to explore various storytelling styles. Teachers can encourage discussions about the cultural and emotional aspects of these stories. Plus, it is such fun!  If you are ready to embark on reader’s theater  or play production as vehicles for storytelling, check out my blog post, The Reasons Teaching Multiculturalism in the Classroom is Vitally Important

Have you introduced your students to Kamishibai storytelling?  Check it out here

Unlocking Creativity: Teaching Storytelling in the Classroom

Incorporate Storytelling in Different Subjects

I strongly urge you to integrate storytelling into various subjects, not just drama class or language arts. Whether it’s creating historical narratives, science fiction stories, or math-related scenarios, connecting storytelling to different subjects makes learning more holistic and enjoyable. One of our biggest challenges in this great big world is understanding one another, especially our cultures.  If you’d like to learn more about integrating drama into core classes, check out: How to Excite Students With Drama Integration

Unlocking Creativity: Teaching Storytelling in the Classroom

Peer Feedback and Collaboration:

I find it you foster a collaborative environment where students can share their stories with peers, reluctant students are less disinterested in your class. Implement peer feedback sessions, emphasizing constructive criticism and positive reinforcement. This not only improves storytelling skills but also enhances communication and teamwork. Here’s a way to incorporate Kamishibai storytelling in the elementary classroom: Storytelling| Student Created Pictures Unit for Upper Elementary. 

Dramamommaspeaks blog

Celebrate Student Achievements:

Another way to create opportunities for students is to showcase their storytelling prowess. Whether through class presentations, storytelling festivals, or publishing a class anthology, celebrating their achievements builds confidence and reinforces the value of storytelling. Pick up a FREE speech rubric here:  Free Speech Communications Editable Persuasive Speech Rubric. 

Unlocking Creativity: Teaching Storytelling in the Classroom

Guest Speakers and Storytelling Experts:

Invite storytellers, authors, or professionals to share their experiences with your students. Guest speakers can provide valuable insights, tips, and inspiration.  Plus they can reinforce the idea that storytelling is a skill with real-world applications. If you pick up a copy of this storytelling unit, I included links to professional storytellers’ performances. 

 

Dramamommaspeaks Blog

Assessment through Reflection:

Choosing what a teacher wants to focus on in storytelling is important.  My advice is to focus on creativity, clarity, and emotional impact. Encourage your students to reflect on their own storytelling journey, identifying areas of growth and setting goals for improvement. This reflective process reinforces the learning experience and encourages a growth mindset.

In conclusion, teaching storytelling in the classroom is more than imparting a set of skills. It’s about nurturing creativity, empathy, and effective communication. By implementing these strategies, we empower our students to become confident storytellers. It  equips with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of the world with imagination and resilience. I encourage you to embrace the power of storytelling, and watch your students’ narratives unfold into vibrant tapestries of expression and understanding.

Recently, my daughter asked me to record the story of the time I saw my father’s ghost walking in a hospital’s hallways.  I was flattered that she remembered the story and wanted to share it with others.  Do you think people would like to hear this story? It’s a true story.

How have you used storytelling in your classroom?  I’d love to hear about it.  You can contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com.

Woman behind DramaMommaSpeaks

Unlocking the Secrets of Elementary Theater Class: A Comprehensive Guide

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Unlocking the Secrets of Elementary Theater Class: A Comprehensive Guide

At this time of year, many newly employed teachers are perusing the internet for lessons for their classes.  Today I’m going to discuss unlocking the secrets of elementary theater class: a comprehensive guide.

A little history about me–My first job was as an English teacher in a junior high school.  Bear in mind that I was certified to teach English, but had never taught it or even experienced teaching it as a student teacher. My student teaching was in theater which in the 1970s was almost unheard of in the mid-west.

Anyway,  I remember they gave me this HUGE book with all of the benchmarks or objectives I was to reach.  It was so full of jargon, I had to sit and translate it into layman’s English.  Finally, I got the hang of it.

My Teaching Journey

When I began teaching middle school theater in the mid 90s (yikes), no one seemed to be clear on what they wanted me to cover.  I came into the position with twenty years of teaching and directing experience outside the classroom, so I knew what to do in those circumstances. Continuing in this position for thirteen years, we then moved to Estes Park, CO which was a dream we never thought would occur.  We loved it!

While in Colorado for six years,  I taught a creative dramatics class to second through fifth  grade students in a home school enrichment program called Apex Home School Enrichment.   The classes were fifty-five minutes in length, once a week.  I saw around 175 students a week over three days. Because I came to the position with so much teaching experience, it was very easy for me to create a curriculum , because I knew what worked and what didn’t.  I hope I can pass along some of this experience to you now.

Unlocking the Secrets of Elementary Theater Class: A Comprehensive Guide

Unlocking the Secrets of Elementary Theater Class: A Comprehensive Guide

To be frank, there are good and not-so-good parts of being the only theater teacher in a school.  The good is that you can make your own decisions as to the content you teach without having to go through a department chair for their approval.  The greatest challenge I believe is that because you are alone in teaching the subject, you don’t have anyone to bounce ideas off of who truly understands what you are teaching.

I know what that’s like.  Having taught for over thirty-eight years, I’ve felt alone many times in my career.  Plus, when you are just starting out its easy to become overwhelmed by all the necessary details.  You probably say to yourself, do I have to create all these lessons all by myself.  The answer is no.

Unlocking the Secrets of Elementary Theater Class: A Comprehensive Guide

Where can I find creative dramatics lessons?

You can join some fancy membership website and spend a lot of money buying lessons you may ever need. Maybe you purchase the membership at the beginning of the year because it sounded like a really good deal.  And maybe it is.  Perhaps you discover after assessing your students for a week or so that this website doesn’t offer what you need. You feel stuck because you paid your money and well, the lessons will suffice.

There is nothing worse than the nagging feeling that you are not doing something especially useful for your students. I’ve been there and I understand.  I bet deep in your soul you know these are not the lessons your students need and really, you need to work ala carte! You want to pick and choose what you cover with your students, planning a month or two at a time.  Check out my latest article in One Classroom Over magazine.

Many times when teaching elementary students, in my opinion, there is too much emphasis placed on the wrong aspects of theater. The secret to unlocking curriculum is go right to ala carte! 

Unlocking the Secrets of Elementary Theater Class: A Comprehensive Guide

Here are some things you do not need to cover:

  1.  Scene study
  2.  Monologues
  3.  Writing a play
  4.  A comprehensive study of the history of theater
  5.  Memorizing large quantities of lines
  6.  Performing in a play longer than fifteen minutes
  7.  Performing in a musical longer than 30 minutes
  8.  Stock characters–Greek and Roman theater helped flesh out stock characters as a concept, but many of the ones we have now would  not originate until much, much later.

When I taught these creative dramatics  lessons in this particular order I began with the easiest concepts and progressed to the most challenging. This was a pass/fail course.  I gave a daily participation grade as well.

Unlocking the Secrets of Elementary Theater Class: A Comprehensive Guide

Here are some concepts they do need to study:

  1. Tableau (1 day)–Tableau is a staple of theater and a non-threatening concept which beginning theater students can learn. Students learn how to make stage pictures (which is one of the basic of directing as well), however they don’t have to say anything. You can find my tableau lessons here:
  2. . Chanting (1 day)–Chanting, (in my TPT store) or a repeated word or phrase used to illicit an effect is the second component I teach novices. Got some questions about teaching middle school? You can also find it in my Made by Teachers store at: Chanting
  3. Movement (2 days)–Just like tableau, students enjoy creative movement because there is no speaking.  Plus, it does a great job of giving students some physical exercise which they sorely need.
  4. Storytelling–(3 days) To learn to tell a story with all of its parts (beginning, middle and end, etc.) is an important skill. You can also find it in my Payhip store at: Storytelling Unit 
  5.  Parts of the stage–(1 day) Students have a difficult time understanding these labels unless they are learned right along with performing. So, keep that in mind.
  6. Improvisation (2 days)–Some advice for you: never begin your year by throwing students into improvisation.  It’s terribly difficult for the novice actor or those who are reluctant about the class.  Build up their trust for at least a month. Take it in baby steps. Try this drama circle for Halloween!
  7. Mask making (2 days)–Students enjoy creating masks and using them in movement pieces or to create a character. My advice?  Use animal masks which are premade or they can create their own.
  8. Costume Design (2 days)–Who doesn’t like costume design?  Depending upon the time of year, I like to teach about costume design with a thematic approach. In this case, it’s Halloween characters or teach with fairy tale characters.
  9. Components of a Stage (1 day) –It’s best to teach these positions as students study set design so they can apply the information you give them.
  10. Set Design (2 days)– Teaching how to draw a rendering of a set is super useful and fun!
  11. Stage Properties (4 days)–Creating and making a stage prop is a magnet for student engagement.  Maybe you can make a prop which is used in the class play, such as snowflakes for a play, Ojisan and the Grateful Statues which is set in winter.
  12. Performance (1 week) You can choose to direct your students in a short one act class play, readers theater or a radio theater play-I liked to switch it up every now and then using something different.   Word of caution–don’t have one class performing a play while the others are studying radio theater.  You will make yourself crazy.
  13. Audience etiquette (weekly)–You can teach how to be a good audience member every day if you like.  Reminding students of what a quiet, attentive audience looks like goes a long way with them.
  14. Warm up Exercises–You can never go wrong with a good warm-up exercise.  Here is one which always works–Firecracker Freeze Tag

If you’d like you can purchase a bundle of them at a discounted cost right here: Theater Arts Lessons for Grades 3 to 5

Unlocking the Secrets of Elementary Theater Class: A Comprehensive Guide

Unlocking the Secrets of Elementary Theater Class: A Comprehensive Guide

In 2018, I opened my store on Teacherspayteachers.com.  My plan was to recoup the pension I lost by staying home with our daughters when they were very young.  I understood that I would lose half of my pension at the time of my retirement, but to this day I have no regrets.  This was a real privilege and I’m aware that many educators don’t have the luxury to do the same.  To this day, I know our daughters almost as well as they do themselves because I was with them when they were young. I treasure that. The aforementioned words in blue are links to my resources which you are welcome to use in your classroom.

If you need defenses for your lessons, check out National Core Arts Standards: A Conceptual Framework for Arts Learning

Do you have any questions?  One feature of my business is that I am available for any teacher who needs a bit of advice or direction for their theater class, no matter the grade level.  You can find me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

Unlocking the Secrets of Elementary Theater Class: A Comprehensive Guide

 

 

 

 

9 Compelling Reasons Why You Need Lessons Using Super Heroes

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9 Compelling Reasons Why You Need Lessons Using Super Heroes

Have you ever experienced a “Eureka” moment while teaching?  You know those moments where everything just clicks and everyone is surprised, especially you? In this case it was super heroes. Let’s talk about 9 compelling reasons why you need lessons using super heroes.

I’ve shared several times that I taught a pre-elective drama class to sixth graders for thirteen years.  If you’d like more information about that time, check out: How to Make Your Drama Class More Successful –Lessons Learned from 38 Years of Teaching-Middle School.  One of the most exhausting parts of it was the constant lesson planning.

If you are at all like me, you know that the “lesson planning monkey” on your back is demanding. And relentless.  Finally, in desperation one week, I took a stab and did something completely spontaneous with my students.  I used super heroes in all my lessons for a week.  The students were thrilled and I was, too!

Many super heroes grouped together

Did you know that super heroes have been a part of our world for nearly one hundred years?

During the late 1930’s to 1950’s, the Golden Age of Comic Books were created. Modern comic books were first published and rapidly increased in popularity among the masses. The superhero archetype was created and many well-known characters were introduced, including Superman, Batman, Captain Marvel, Captain America, and Wonder Woman. Most superheroes served as a figure who inspired hope. This hero could save us all from dark and difficult times. Superhero stories promote the ideas of peace, safety and freedom. Some experts consider this message a necessary reassurance in difficult times. The message isn’t about a country succeeding, but recognition that there are others with similar hope for a peaceful future

If I’ve convinced you to consider utilizing super heroes in your teaching, read on!

9 Compelling Reasons Why You Need Lessons Using Super Heroes

When I began writing this blog post, I ran on to a wonderful website, Momjunction.com who stated:

Reason #1: Superhero play gives kids the chance to pretend to be strong and invincible,

Reason #2: They encourage students to make new friends and helps them develop an identity outside of real life.

Reason #3: Super heroes  help children explore moral values and dilemmas and to establish what they and others perceive as right and wrong.

Reason #4: They help children build their confidence. Exposing students to the fantastic world of superheroes may help them come out of the shell and encourage them to face the world with renewed confidence.

Reason #5: Also, they act as role models. Superheroes can be good role models as they teach children various attributes such as courage, honesty, humility, fighting spirit, sense of responsibility, and leadership.

Reason #6: Super heroes instill compassion. Because they are aware of their superiority, it gives the a different perspective on others.  They know that they could destroy most everything and everyone.  Consequently, they understand their actions–both physical and emotional are not only necessary but need to be governed at all times.

What Superheroes Teach Us About Strength, Teamwork, and Joy

Reason #7: They teach willpower and courage.  Super heroes don’t give up at the first failure.  They keep trying until they read their goal.

Reason #8: As you might expect, they  model teamwork.  When super heroes work together they know they must share the burden of the challenge and employ the best in each other. All team members respect each other’s opinions and capabilities while collectively working towards the common goal.

Reasons #9 They are just plain fun.  Super Heroes and their quests take us to a different place in our imaginations where anything is possible. Pick up some fun supplies for your super hero week here: Super Hero Teaching Supplies

Have I convinced you yet to use super heroes in your teaching?

This is How I Can Help You

Maybe you need some ready-made lessons?  I have a brand new Dramamommaspeaks store where you can purchase a few lessons with a superhero theme.

Each lessons focuses on a different theme–playwriting (the monologue), tableau and movement, costume design and storytelling.

A teacher could use them as is in their drama classroom or a reading teacher could integrate them into a unit about super heroes.  Usually students in grades 5 to 8 enjoy them the most, but you know your students the best so you decide.  You can purchase them at Payhip.com or Teacherspayteacher.com.

My Teaching Style

You may find my lessons to be quite unique–there’s a reason.  Since I taught theater classes for nearly forty years, I had the rare opportunity to watch theater subjects unfold and change over many years.  I got to see first hand what worked and what wasn’t so successful.  For instance, there was a time when we didn’t even try to teach technical theater, but now we have lots of units about them.

During this time, I noticed that middle and elementary teachers were using themed units to teach particular concepts or objectives. The students appeared very excited by them.  Hence, when I was exhausted from planning I turned to using themes to teach theater concepts and it worked wonderfully. Here is one for Halloween: Halloween Drama Lessons and Units 

If you want to learn more about how to integrate drama into your classroom, check out: How to Excite Students With Drama Integration

What are some themed units you’ve taught?  I’d love to hear about them.  Email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com and let’s chat!

Woman behind DramaMommaSpeaks