gifted and talented

Easy-to-Use Middle School Drama Lessons: Volume 1

June 25, 2025 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

Easy-to-Use Middle School Drama Lessons: Volume 1

My second year of teaching — School photo of my second year of teaching

Today, let’s talk about easy-to-use middle school drama lessons, volume 1, shall we? I bet you’d agree with me–teachers are conscientious people. We are like a dog with a bone–we just don’t give up. When I began teaching, my first three years of teaching (English) were exhausting and challenging. In fact, I had never student taught the subject. Plus, I was on my own trying to understand the scope and sequence pacing.

Back then, we did not have mentor teachers. A nice, equally young teacher gave me a huge tome complete with English department standards with outcomes expected by grade level. It was filled with jargon which I had to translate into laymen terms before I could even consider teaching them! Talk about overwhelm. However, I never gave up and learned tons from teaching English for those three years.

From Grad School to the Classroom: What Really Works with Middle Schoolers

Time went by and I survived those first years of teaching. Later, when I began teaching a pre-elective drama class for middle schoolers, I had just finished my M.Ed. in Creative Arts Learning. It was perfect timing—I ended up using so many of those teaching methods in the classroom right away.

What I learned over many years is that middle school students need variety and short bursts of learning. Of course, it’s good if it’s fun, too. (Trust me, here. My students and I laugh a lot in a class period.) Looking for a play to direct? Check out: 8 Middle School Plays That Work Every Time

My lessons generally followed this pattern:

warm up (15 mins.)
teacher lesson (10 to 20 mins.)
student application (15 mins.)
cool down, exit slip, etc. (5-10 mins.)

What’s Inside Volume 1?

Even though this was a pass/fail class, I had the opportunity to teach as much or as little theater information as I liked. The principal left it up to me which was gratifying to way the least. Also, I taught them the rudimentary concepts of stage geography, stage positions, blocking positions, acting positions, and movement. Most youth theater and school theater programs focus on the actor. I knew that the concepts of stage orientation would be needed no matter what program or class they enrolled in next time.

Hooked from the Start: Building Excitement and Ownership in Drama Class

Additionally, students learned about the origin of theater (did it begin through myth or ritual?). We had lively debates discussing their opinions. By establishing the class with this resource, a teacher can put their students in the driver’s seat right off the bat. They learn that their opinions count!

Always I kept it in mind that I wanted my students to enroll in another drama class after mine. Most importantly, I wanted them to leave my class so in love with theater arts they couldn’t wait to learn more about it.

Why Teachers Love It

It is not out of the ordinary for me to receive a positive review. I’m thrilled that I helped a teacher!

“My students loved this unit for my theater class. I have always struggled on how to teach set deisng in this class and your presesntation took me step by step through the procerss! Plus, I was able to modify it for my Behavior Theater class who loved the hands on aspects of this unit. ”

“Thank you for the teacher’s script and details. YOu could easily print and use this in your classroom immediately. SO MUCH DETAILS and SO MANY OPTIONS! I can use it all or in pieces as time allows. Thank you.”

My Favorite Lessons in the Volume

One of my favorite units to teach is set design. Students enjoy it because it’s concrete. It’s not that scary acting/ emotion stuff! Plus, I focus on fairy tales as the theme. When I first began teaching this unit, fairy tales hadn’t become as popular as they are at present. In fact, some students weren’t even familiar with the story of The Three Little Pigs!

However, now that fairy tales are popular in television and film, students nearly jump at the opportunity to create their own set for whatever fairy tale story they choose. The unit includes titles such as Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood or Jack and the Beanstalk.

In addition, I enjoy teaching about Kamishibai Storytelling. If you are unfamiliar with Kamishibai, you’ll enjoy how well it works in the classroom. Got shy students? You can encourage to break out of their shell through this unit. First, you’ll put your students into teams of two to create their stories. They draw their story and finally they perform them in tandem. Talk about win-win!

How to Use It Throughout the Year

Have you picked up a copy of my Scope and Sequence resource of drama lessons? It’s free to you and will give you a comprehensive and organized plan. You can find it here: Scope and Sequence, Vol. 1.

When you pick up the scope and sequence guide, you’ll notice that I suggest beginning the learning with the basic components of theater. They include tableaux, movement, sound effects, improvisation, movement, etc. Furthermore, there is time for designing a set and costumes, too. I’ve included everything a teacher may need from teacher’s scripts (so you know what to say) to procedures (with time stamps) to warm-up exercises, live video clip links and a rubric or two.

So, there you have it! I hope you’ll grab Volume 1 here to take the guesswork out of teaching drama! Or…buy Volume 1 and 2 here: Bundle Volume 1 and 2 Middle School

Looking for more? Check out my new book, We’re Live! Radio Theater #101–all about how to use radio theater to engage students in any classroom.

Got a question or request? Just email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com. I’d be happy to help you!

P.S. If you all ready own these, check out volume 3! It’s brand new: BUNDLE MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM VOLUME 3

Click here: We’re Live! Radio Theater #101

Boost Drama Class with These 5 Teacher Favorites

June 9, 2025 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

Boost Drama Class with These 5 Teacher Favorites

To begin with, as theater teachers, we often face a familiar set of challenges: limited prep time and diverse student needs. Plus, these are coupled with th desire to build a strong classroom community while still hitting learning goals. How can we do that? What resources will it require? Let’s discuss how to boost drama class with these five teacher favorites! Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refresh your curriculum, the right resource can make all the difference.

Over time, I’ve created and refined dozens of drama education materials that aim to solve these challenges. These aren’t just popular—they’ve been tested by real teachers and praised for how well they support classroom success. (Proof of Concept? To date, over 23,000 teachers have purchased from my Dramamommaspeaks store.)

Boost Drama Class with These 5 Teacher Favorites

1. Drama Ice Breakers and Ensemble Builders

Why it helps:
A strong ensemble is the heartbeat of any theater classroom. These ice breakers and team-building games are more than just “fun activities”. They teach students how to collaborate, listen actively, and take creative risks in a low-pressure environment. I’ve used these same for questions for years to help my students become confident and connected performers.

What’s included:

Engaging warm-ups for all experience levels
Games that promote trust and communication
Easy-to-follow instructions for quick implementation

As a result, this is a teacher favorite because:
They save you time and get your students up and moving—essential in the first few weeks of school.

One reviewer wrote, “These helped my students open up immediately and created a supportive classroom culture.”

Boost Drama Class with These 5 Teacher Favorites

Daily Drama That Delivers: Engage Every Student, Every Day

2. Morning Meeting Bell Ringers: Tony Award-Winning Plays

Why it helps:
These 24 bell ringers bring Broadway into your classroom through bite-sized lessons that celebrate Tony award-winning plays. Each includes a brief synopsis, the awards it won, and a thoughtful question to encourage discussion or journal writing. In addition, they’re great for daily warm-ups or as part of a broader curriculum on theater history.

What’s included:

24 ready-to-use slides
Tony-winning play summaries and awards
Video clip links for reference
Critical thinking questions to prompt student reflection

Teacher favorite because:
They introduce important theatrical works without adding to your prep load. Consequently, students get exposed to a wide range of plays, and teachers love the simplicity and depth. “These were a great way to start my class and got my students talking about theater right away,” one educator said.

3. Radio Theater Unit

Why it helps:
This unit taps into the often-overlooked world of radio drama. It is ideal for classrooms with limited space or performance anxiety. Students learn about sound effects, vocal inflection, and character development. Lastly, they create and perform their own radio commercials. Pick up one of my radio play scripts and you’ve got three weeks of learning!

What’s included:

A full unit guide with daily procedures for 12 days
Warm-ups and vocal exercises
Radio play scripts and sound design activities

Altogether, this is a teacher favorite because:
It combines performance, technical design, and storytelling into one seamless unit. One teacher shared, “My class LOVED this! It allowed even shy students to shine and brought a new energy to our drama time.”

Connect with Culture and Creativity

4. The Story of Lin-Manuel Miranda: Read-Aloud Biography Unit

Why it helps:
Students are always more engaged when they can relate to the subject. This biography of Lin-Manuel Miranda—complete with prompts and journaling ideas—makes for a great literacy integration! Plus, it’a super jumping-off point for conversations about creativity, diversity, and perseverance.

What’s included:

A read-aloud biography concerning his life, education, journey to Broadway and accolades he’s won
Student discussion questions
Journal writing prompts for reflection and connection

Teacher favorite because:
It inspires students with a story they care about while encouraging thoughtful writing. Additionally, teachers often use this during Hispanic Heritage Month, literacy blocks, or between units. One teacher remarked, “My students really enjoyed this lesson. The resources were great and they loved putting together the rap!”

Check out this blog post for other famous Broadway actor biographies: Teaching Stage Legends: Burnett, Andrews, Jones, and Van Dyke

5. Costume Design for Beginners

Why it helps: Costume design is a fantastic entry point into technical theater. Furthermore, it helps students think critically about character, mood, and time period. This beginner-friendly unit introduces students to the basics of costume design through research, drawing, and hands-on activities.

What’s included:

Introduction to costume design principles
Guided drawing and analysis assignments
Creative prompts for designing original character costumes

Teacher favorite because: It taps into visual learning and creativity while supporting script analysis and design thinking. One teacher noted, “This was a perfect way to engage students who love art and fashion while still connecting back to theater concepts.”

Pick up a FREE holiday parade costume design lesson here:

In Conclusion

Lastly, you’re looking for materials that are trusted, easy to implement, and designed with teachers in mind, give these a try. Check out this post for additional resources which can help you: 5 Easy Drama Games for Emergency Sub Plans

Have a favorite you’d like me to feature next? Drop me a message—I love hearing how these resources work in your classroom. Also, I’m so pleased to announce that my blog is one of the top 5 for drama teachers in the world.

Learn more here:

Deborah Baldwin of Dramamommaspeaks — When I portrayed MIss Prism in The Importance of Being Earnest

Deb

The Power of Play: Teaching Children Through Creative Dramatics

May 22, 2025 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

The Power of Play: Teaching Children Through Creative Dramatics

When I was a young child, I spent many an hour playing in the forsythia bush on the side of our home. To me, it was the perfect place to hide away–just close enough so my mother could see me from the kitchen window and just far enough away that I could pretend anything my heart desired. Today, let’s talk about The Power of Play: Teaching Children Through Creative Dramatics.

Picture this: a group of five-year-old’s flapping their arms like birds, pretending to soar through a jungle canopy. To an outsider, it might look like simple and unimportant play—but to a drama educator, it’s the beginning of something profound. Creative dramatics, or informal, process-centered dramatic play, is a powerful tool in the early childhood classroom. It supports developmental milestones in ways that worksheets and structured lessons simply can’t.

So why should we encourage young learners to step into someone else’s shoes—literally and figuratively? Here’s why creative dramatics deserves a starring role in every early childhood curriculum. Looking for superhero creative dramatics lessons? Go to: Super Hero Lesson Bundle

The Power of Play: Teaching Children Through Creative Dramatics

1. Builds Language and Communication Skills

When children act out stories, they’re not just having fun—they’re expanding their vocabulary, practicing sentence structure, and learning how to listen and respond. Additionally, if they are like me they pick up accents they hear in movies and television and use them without being aware. Or they imitate a person’s vocal inflection (remember “E Gods!” in The Music Man?) Whether it’s a spontaneous pirate adventure or a dramatized retelling of The Three Little Pigs, drama provides a low-pressure environment to explore language.

Bonus: Shy children often feel more comfortable speaking through a character, which helps build confidence.

2. Encourages Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

Perhaps the most important aspect of creative dramatics is that it invites children to be someone else—an important exercise in empathy. What does it feel like to be the Big Bad Wolf? Or the lost kitten? Children begin to understand and name emotions. Thereby recognizing how others might feel in different situations. This is a gigantic skill! Plus, they can learn the early foundations of kindness and perspective-taking. Read my blog post for my reasons to direct The Diary of Anne Frank: The Most Important Play I’ve Directed

Teamwork in Action: Building Social Skills Through Shared Stories

3. Supports Social Development and Collaboration

Drama is almost never a solo activity. In fact, when young children create scenes together, they learn to naturally take turns, listen actively, negotiate roles, and solve conflicts. Who wouldn’t agree that learning to solve conflicts is a vital skill we all need to work on? It’s teamwork in its most joyful form. And for students still developing their interpersonal skills, creative dramatics offers a safe, playful setting to practice.

Although I enjoy directing production because I get the chance to see my vision come to fruition. I’m also aware that I couldn’t have had a successful production without the cast, crew and creative staff. To learn more about my directing experiences, check out: The Reasons I Love the Giver

4. Stimulates Imagination and Critical Thinking

Pretend play is the root of innovation. Through dramatics, children learn to invent, problem-solve, and think outside the box. A single scarf becomes a crown, a blanket turns into a mountain, and suddenly—there’s a kingdom to save! This kind of flexible thinking fuels creativity across subjects, from storytelling to science. Personally, I find that pretending is very relaxing. Download this wonderful exercise if you are in need of something to boost your students creativity: Wax Museum

5. Promotes Physical Coordination and Motor Skills

Young children need to move—and drama gives them a purpose to do so. Acting out actions like climbing, sneaking, galloping, or twirling engages the imagination. Do you teach about verbs? Use creative movement to teach it! Consequently, it also strengthens gross motor skills and body awareness. Add in props and costume pieces, and you’ve also got fine motor practice at your fingertips. Need a lesson to teach creative movement? Check out: Drama Lesson Creative Movement

6. Fosters a Love of Stories and Literacy

Many drama lessons stem from beloved books and folktales. Children who act out a story become more engaged readers and listeners. When they act out a story, they begin to understand narrative structure, identify characters and settings, and retell events in sequence. It’s one of the most powerful ways to nurture pre-literacy skills. Here’s a FREE Japanese folk tale which is all told through movement and narration: Ojisan and the Grateful Statues

Needing a book of ideas? Pick up Viola Spolin’s book, Theater Games for the Classroom. It’s chock full of exercises with side coaching advice and clear procedures.

My Final Thoughts

As I mentioned, I have fond memories of playing under the forsythia bushes in our backyard when I was a child. Between them and the upstairs porch in our home, I had plenty of time to hone my imagination. It is one of my abilities of which I am most proud. Check out my directing resume and see what I mean–About Me

Creative dramatics may look like play—and that’s exactly the point. It’s learning through joy, movement, voice, and imagination. As educators and parents, we owe it to our youngest learners to offer them opportunities to express themselves freely and learn through doing. Trust me, if you introduce them to pretend play they will join you with open arms.

Whether it’s a simple “pretend we’re animals” warm-up or a more structured story reenactment, every moment of creative drama helps a child grow. So grab a scarf, a hat, or just an idea, and let the story begin!

Needing a book of ideas? Pick up Viola Spolin’s book, Theater Games for the Classroom. It’s chock full of exercises with side coaching advice and clear procedures.

What book are you go-tos? I’d love to hear about them. Email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com.

Theater Books Every Drama Teacher Should Own

May 8, 2025 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

Theater Books Every Drama Teacher Should Know

From time to time, I read of teachers having funds left nearing the end of the year. They are frantically trying to spend any left over funds in their budget. If you aren’t familiar with this kind of fervor. Please know this–many times if a teacher does not use up their budget, it is given to someone else! And we don’t want that to happen, now do we?

Usually, I suggest items such as rehearsal boxes, makeup kits, a light tree, etc. But today I’m blogging only about books I recommend you collect for your teaching library. Here is a list of my ” Theater Books Every Drama Teacher Should Own”.

When I began teaching like a hundred years ago, there weren’t too many resources from which to teach. Of course, we had play anthologies, but nothing much for the day-to-day class. No one had ventured into teaching young students yet. I mean, this was 1980! If you’d like more information about that journey, check out: How to Make Your Drama Class Successful-Lessons Learned from 38 Years of Teaching High School.

Now you can find many books focusing on particular grade levels. I’ve included several for each grade level here.

Theater Books Every Drama Teacher Should Own

Theater Games for the Classroom by Viola Spolin–This theater book is absolutely essential for you (and a personal favorite of mine), especially if you are teaching elementary or middle school students. This best-selling book by Viola Spolin offers the most comprehensive theater instruction for all types of students, from small children to young adults. It includes over 130 theater games, plus exercises and instructional strategies. First developed by Spolin, the originator of modern improvisational theater techniques, these games have been tried and tested for over fifty years. I’ll tell you a secret–most of the books that are published about warm up games and exercises used this one as a stepping off point for theirs! In other words, go to the original source.

2. Multicultural Plays for Children Volume 2 by Pamela Gerke–When I taught middle school students a pre-elective course, I used several plays from this theater book collection. These excellent dramatic adaptations of 10 folktales from various countries and cultures will help fill that void. Most importantly I think each play is based on a story from the oral tradition that has retained. Consequently through many alterations across time, these plays share a core of truth about human nature and life.

Furthermore, this book includes a substantial introductory section that addresses many concerns: adapting a play for various cast sizes; changing gender, setting, and length; vocal-projection exercises and theater games; plus many useful suggestions for production.

Also, each play has detailed directions for creating sets, props, costumes. In addition, it includes a realistic timetable for rehearsals and other production needs, and a pronunciation guide. Talk about really helpful for a teacher! Music is included, as is extensive information about some cultures that will extend and enrich the experience for children. Included: The Comedy of Errors, Hamlet, Macbeth, The Merchant of Venice, Othello, Romeo and Julie, and The Tempest, etc.

Inspire Movement Through Story and Song

3. Lesson Plans for Creative Dance: Connecting with Literature, Arts and Music by Sally Carline–Children love to express themselves through movement—and with this great new resource, you can guide them through a range of actions and dances that will help them develop both physically and mentally. This theater book is a resource for physical educators, classroom teachers, and dance specialists as well as a useful supplement to college level elementary education courses.

Additionally, author Sally Carline has tested and refined the creative movement activities that she has prepared for educators and for preservice teachers. She includes background material that will ground you in understanding how to best teach and incorporate movement activities in a variety of classes and settings. Check out this blog post for more information: Creative Movement: Elementary and Middle School Teachers – Ready to Move?

Beautiful Stories from Shakespeare for Children

4.Beautiful Stories for Children by Edith Nesbit -When I taught an introduction to Shakespeare course, I used this theater book with middle schoolers. We read the stories, minus Shakespeare’s play versions. William Shakespeare is arguably the most pivotal and widely read figure in the history of English literature. This comprehensive collection highlights some of the bard’s best works. Plus, they have been adapted to be more easily read and digestible for children.

Included are the stories of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Tempest, As You Like It, The Winter’s Tale, King Lear, Twelfth Night, Much Ado About Nothing, Romeo and Juliet, Pericles, Hamlet, Cymbeline and Macbeth. Also, included are the stories of The Comedy of Errors, The Merchant of Venice, Timon of Athens, Othello, The Taming of the Shrew, Measure for Measure, Two Gentlemen of Verona, All’s Well That Ends Well.

Acting from the Inside Out: Tools for Voice, Body, and Imagination

5. Building a Character–Building a Character by Constantin Stanislavski is one of the three volumes that make up Stanislavski’s The Acting Trilogy. An Actor Prepares explores the inner preparation an actor must undergo in order to explore a role to the full. In this volume, Sir John Gielgud said, this great director “found time to explain a thousand things that have always troubled actors and fascinated students.”

Building a Character discusses the external techniques of acting: the use of the body, movement, diction, singing, expression, and control. Plus, it describes the preparation that precedes actual performance. This theater book includes extensive discussions of Gogol’s The Inspector General and Shakespeare’s Othello. Lastly, Sir Paul Scofield called Creating a Role “immeasurably important” for the actor.

Additionally, If you are ready to teach Stanislavski’s methods, check out: Theater of Acting Unit The Konstantin Stanislavski Acting Styles Method Memory

6. We’re Live! Radio Theater #101 by Deborah Baldwin–Written by me, this theater book is the ultimate resource for drama teachers looking to introduce students to the exciting world of radio theater. Designed for grades 2–12, this book walks educators through the process of creating, rehearsing, and performing radio plays. And with no costumes or sets required! Inside, you’ll find student-friendly scripts, production tips, voice acting techniques, and simple sound effect ideas that bring stories to life using only imagination and sound.

Whether you’re tight on time, space, or resources, We’re Live! offers a creative and flexible way to engage students in storytelling, collaboration, and performance. It’s perfect for in-class use, distance learning, or even podcast projects. Lastly, my book guides and empowers teachers to step into the role of radio director and help students shine—mic in hand and voices ready!

7. Curtains Up! Theatre Games and Storytelling by Robert Rubinstein– If you teach students in upper elementary and middle school, this would be one of the first books I’d suggest to you. I learned about it at a MSTA convention (sponsored by Educational Theatre Association) many years ago. Theatre games help to develop students’ skills in storytelling, improvisation, and public speaking. They also build confidence, teamwork, and vocabulary. This is a collection of theatre games which have been classroom tested. Try the collaborative and fun activity “The Monster with Three Heads.” Pick up a copy of this exercise here: Three Headed Monster. I guarantee you, your students will love it!

Looking for free lessons? Check out: Free Stuff!

What theater books would you suggest to a theater teacher? I’d love to include it in a blog post planned for the near future. Just contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

Click here: We’re Live! Radio Theater #101

Teach Through the Arts for Healthier Students

April 1, 2025 By dhcbaldwin 2 Comments

Teach Through the Arts for Healthier Students

If you’re a teacher, you already know how students light up when they’re given the chance to create. I was one of those students. Whether it’s acting out a scene, drawing a character sketch, or composing a soundscape, the arts tap into something deeply human. But beyond building imagination and collaboration, there’s another reason to champion the arts in your classroom: teach through the arts for healthier students. Creative activities don’t just enrich learning—they support emotional regulation, reduce stress, and promote well-being in ways that traditional methods often can’t.

I jokingly tell friends that, “I’m going to see a live musical tonight to boost my mental health.” I coined, “arts vitamins” for these experiences. Although anecdotal, I can prove how much they help me. I have a devil of a time sleeping through the night. However, whenever I attend any sort of arts event I sleep like a little baby that night. Seeing the arts live always moves me most, but even when I watch a performance on screen—whether in a theater or at home—I still feel uplifted. One of my favorites “arts vitamins” to view at home is: nattheaathome.org

In 2019, the World Health Organization reviewed over 3,000 studies exploring the connection between the arts and health. Their conclusion? The arts play a major role in the prevention of illness, the promotion of health, and the management and treatment of disease.

Teach Through the Arts for Healthier Students

For years, the arts were often seen as enrichment—something extra to sprinkle in after the “real” academic work was done. But research continues to prove otherwise: the arts are foundational to student wellness and development.

Creative experiences directly impact the brain and body in ways that support learning and health. When students engage in activities like acting, drawing, singing, or dancing, they’re doing far more than expressing themselves—they’re nurturing their nervous systems and emotional intelligence. Have you ever had to debate why your theater class is important? Check out this resource. Why Theater Education Matters

The Art of Feeling Better

Here’s how the arts support student health:

Lower cortisol levels: Engaging in creative activities can reduce the stress hormone cortisol, leading to calmer, more focused students—especially important in high-pressure school environments.
Improve emotional regulation: Artistic expression gives students safe ways to explore and manage emotions. Acting out scenes, drawing feelings, or writing monologues helps them process big feelings in a constructive way.
Enhance communication and social connection: Group projects, performances, and critiques all help students develop empathy, active listening, and collaboration skills. These are critical for both classroom success and life beyond school.
Strengthen the immune system: When students are less stressed and more engaged, their bodies respond positively. Lower stress levels have been linked to better immune function and overall well-being.

As a teacher, you’re not just boosting creativity—you’re giving students tools for healthier lives. Every artistic moment in your classroom is a step toward a more balanced, resilient learner. Looking for a FREE lesson from me? Pick up my FREE Nicole Scherzinger Biography Lesson here.

When Art Becomes Medicine: A Swiss Town’s Prescription for Creativity

If you need proof that the arts are more than just enrichment, look to the small town of Biel/Bienne, Switzerland, where doctors are literally prescribing museum visits to patients dealing with stress, depression, or burnout.

In a groundbreaking pilot program launched in early 2024, patients can receive a “cultural prescription” as part of their treatment plan. These prescriptions allow free access to local art museums, encouraging individuals to explore creativity and beauty as a form of healing. Inspired by similar programs in Canada and Belgium, this initiative is a bold recognition of what many educators already know: art heals.

Additionally, patients reported improvements in mood, motivation, and perspective—just by spending time in creative spaces. The program doesn’t just serve as a mental health intervention; it also builds connection, curiosity, and engagement with the community.

Classroom Connection: What This Looks Like in Action

Students who are struggling with anxiety might find solace in writing a monologue or performing a scene. Or you can play it safe and do a group performance which can build confidence in shy students. Also, reflective art journals help process emotions. Even a simple daily sketch or a “freeze frame” tableau can reset the tone of a restless classroom. Want a resource for this purpose? Check out: Tableau for the End of the School Year

These aren’t just fun activities—they are tools that support mental and emotional health.

The ‘Art for Everyone’ Movement: Expanding Access, One Step at a Time

When I was researching this topic, I learned about this movement on CBS Sunday Morning. The Art for Everyone movement reminds us that art isn’t just for professional artists or elite programs—it’s for everyone. Similarly, this growing initiative advocates for accessible, inclusive arts education in schools, libraries, hospitals, and communities. It partners with artists, educators, and civic leaders to make sure students—no matter their background—get a chance to create and express. I’ve blogged about this subject in the past from a different perspective. You can read it here: This is What the Arts do for You

You’re part of that movement every time you make space for creativity in your classroom. Don’t know how to do so? Check out: How Do I Use Arts Integration in the Classroom?

The Research Is In: Arts Build Confidence and Well-Being

As an arts advocate for over forty years, I have first hand experience at the positive results the arts encourage in our students. In fact, I’ve never known them not to boost a student’s confidence. However, in a recent study from China focused on college students found something powerful: students who participated in fine arts classes reported higher levels of psychological well-being. But that’s not all—what made the biggest difference was the boost in creativity and self-confidence those classes sparked.

In other words, the more students engaged with the arts, the more they believed in their ability to create and solve problems—and the better they felt mentally and emotionally. Yahoo!

Furthermore, this matters at every level of education. As teachers, when we teach through the arts, we give students space to explore their creativity, we’re also helping them grow into more confident, resilient individuals. It’s not just about developing artistic skills—it’s about supporting the whole person.

Final Thoughts for Teachers

When you teach through the arts, you don’t need a separate arts budget. Nor do you need a black box theater to bring the benefits of the arts into your students’ lives. Start small. Try:

A short scene reading on a Friday afternoon
A visual reflection poster after a book unit
A “soundtrack” assignment for a character study
Or simply asking, “How can we express this concept creatively?”

When you integrate the arts, you’re not just teaching your subject—you’re nurturing your students’ health, confidence, and humanity. And that is something worth celebrating.

What arts activities do you include in your lessons? Did you know that my masters is in creative arts learning, or arts integration? I am very willing to create for you the lesson you need for this express purpose. Just email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

Exploring Social Issues Through Plays: A Guide for Middle School

November 19, 2024 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

Exploring Social Issues Through Plays: A Guide for Middle School

Today, I want to reflect on the my blog post title, exploring social issues through plays: a guide for middle School. Theater is a powerful tool for middle school students to explore and discuss social issues. By stepping into the shoes of characters dealing with real-world challenges, students develop empathy, critical thinking, and teamwork. Plays such as The Yellow Boat, Ama and the White Cranes, and The Third Wave provide age-appropriate ways to delve into complex topics, making them ideal for young performers.

The Power of Theater in the Classroom: Inspiring Change Through Stories

I believe one of our missions as teachers is to make the world a better place. As theater teachers, we have an incredibly useful tool at our fingertips–plays or musicals. No other art form can do what theater can do! I think you’d agree with me that the best way to reach people is through a story. Theater is non-confrontational and provides important universal themes.

In our classrooms, students can read or perform plays just for the sure fun or experience of it. Consequently, students can experience diverse perspectives and learn to understand others’ emotions and struggles. Plus, plays can structure an environment for discussing sensitive topics. Additionally, theater challenges students to examine societal issues in-depth and consider their roles in creating change.

Exploring Social Issues Through Plays: A Guide for Middle School

Here are a few plays I recommend to you. Your students could read one of these plays in your class or better yet, produce it for the public. (That’s the real elixir.)

My Recommendations for Middle School Reading

1. Peer Pressure, Authority, and Group Dynamics

—The Third Wave Based on a true story, this gripping play explores the dangers of groupthink and authoritarianism. It recounts a high school teacher’s experiment to demonstrate how easily individuals can be drawn into totalitarian systems. The Wave provides a thought-provoking look at peer pressure and critical thinking, making it highly relevant for middle schoolers.

2. Illness, Resilience, and Family

– The Yellow Boat by David Saar. This deeply moving play is based on the true story of Benjamin Saar, a young boy born with congenital hemophilia. Through his vivid imagination and artistic talent, Benjamin navigates the joys and struggles of his life, including his battle with HIV/AIDS, contracted from a blood transfusion. His journey, filled with creativity, resilience, and love, celebrates the power of art and human connection. The play is a poignant exploration of hope, loss, and the enduring spirit of a child, offering audiences a heartfelt and uplifting experience. A heartwarming and imaginative story about a young boy living with a terminal illness. This play offers an opportunity for students to explore themes of resilience, creativity, and the bonds of family.

3. Cultural Identity and Environmental Awareness

– Ama and the White Cranes This is a poignant play that blends Japanese folklore with contemporary themes of resilience and tradition. It follows Ama, a skilled pearl diver, who finds herself at odds with her village’s changing ways. When a mysterious white crane begins appearing during her dives, Ama discovers it is the spirit of her late mother, guiding her to protect the ocean and its treasures from exploitation. Ama struggles to reconcile her personal desires with her duty to her heritage. The story unfolds into a beautiful tale of sacrifice, love, and the enduring bond between humanity and nature. This is a beautiful play that introduces Japanese culture while exploring themes of courage, family, and environmental responsibility.

Timeless Stories: Exploring Empathy and Justice Through Adapted Plays

4. Bullying and Kindness

–The Hundred Dresses: This play adapted from the book of the same name, centers on Wanda Petronski, a Polish-American girl who is ridiculed by her classmates for wearing the same faded blue dress daily. In response to the teasing, Wanda claims to own one hundred beautiful dresses at home, a statement that becomes a focal point of the narrative. The book explores themes of bullying, empathy, and the consequences of prejudice. First published in 1944, this book and story survive the test of time.

-Holes– by Louis Sachar. This play adaptation of the book of the same name, is the story of Stanley Yelnats who is wrongly accused of theft. Stanley Yelnats is sent to Camp Green Lake, where boys dig holes daily as part of their punishment. As Stanley uncovers secrets about the camp, his family’s past, and the outlaw Kissin’ Kate Barlow, themes of justice, fate, and friendship come to light. (It seems to be out of printing as of this writing, but do check back to see if it’s re-appeared.)

5. Leadership and Community

– The Giver: Based on Lois Lowry’s novel, this play encourages students to reflect on freedom, individuality, and the responsibilities of leadership. Set in a seemingly utopian society where pain, conflict, and choice are eliminated. Jonas, a 12-year-old boy, is chosen to inherit the role of the Receiver of Memories. The Receiver is the only individual who holds the truth of the world’s past. As he learns from The Giver, Jonas begins to see the dark truths behind his community’s controlled existence. Confronted with the weight of memory and emotion, Jonas questions whether to accept the status quo or risk everything to bring freedom and individuality back to his world. For more information, read my post–The Reasons I Love The Giver Play

Cultivating Community and Resilience: Plays That Inspire Connection

– Seedfolks: This is a touching play adaptation of Paul Fleischman’s novel, weaving together the stories of diverse individuals in a struggling urban neighborhood. When a young girl plants a handful of beans in a vacant lot, her small act inspires others to transform the space into a thriving community garden. Each character contributes their unique voice, sharing personal struggles. Most importantly, while they share cultural perspectives, unexpected connections arise. As the garden grows, so does the sense of hope, unity, and understanding among the neighbors. This poignant story celebrates the power of small acts to foster change and build community.

-Esperanza Rising– This play is a heartfelt adaptation of Pam Muñoz Ryan’s acclaimed novel, following Esperanza Ortega, a privileged young girl in 1930s Mexico. When her family’s fortunes are shattered by tragedy, Esperanza and her mother are forced to flee to California. There they work as migrant laborers. Facing the hardship of poverty, prejudice, and back-breaking labor, Esperanza learns the value of resilience, community, and hope. This powerful coming-of-age story celebrates the strength of the human spirit and the importance of staying rooted in love and compassion during times of great change.

Discussing Social Issues in the Middle School Classroom

6. Diversity and Acceptance

—The Watsons Go to Birmingham--1963: Ten-year-old Kenny narrates a life-changing summer for his family. Hoping to reform troublemaking Byron, the Watsons travel to Birmingham, Alabama. They face the tragic 1963 church bombing. This moving and humorous story, based on Christopher Paul Curtis’ novel, explores family and resilience during a pivotal moment in history.

—Bud Not Buddy–-Set in 1930s Michigan, 10-year-old Bud Caldwell, an orphan fleeing abusive foster homes, embarks on a journey to find his father. Guided by a flier for a jazz band, Herman E. Calloway and the Dusky Devastators of the Depression, Bud travels to Grand Rapids. He believes Calloway to be his father. Along the way, Bud encounters trouble, humor, and wisdom, using his “Rules and Things” to navigate a challenging world.

The Third Wave: A Powerful Lesson in Authority and Responsibility

At this point in our country’s history, it is vitally important that we dramatize stories whose themes are especially powerful to our students. We are at a real crossroads. It is up to us to stand and be counted.

The Third Wave is particularly impactful for middle school students. Foremost, it dives into the issues they can relate to, such as peer pressure, the influence of authority figures, and the need to belong. The play demonstrates how quickly groupthink can take over. Additionally, it encourages students to think critically about their choices and the importance of standing up for what’s right.

By dramatizing this real-life experiment, The Third Wave helps middle school students understand the dangers of blindly following authority or succumbing to social pressures. It’s a powerful conversation starter about history, psychology, and personal responsibility. Lastly, I challenge you to select this play for production at your school–you won’t regret it!

Incorporating These Plays into the Classroom

Wondering how to introduce students to the themes and moments in history or cultural contexts? If you’re using the play in your middle school classroom, encourage students to write reflections. For example, they could be written from their characters’ perspectives to deepen their engagement. Additionally, you can facilitate a discussion about the play’s messages and how they relate to students’ lives.

Ready to inspire your students and tackle these critical topics? The stage is waiting!

What plays do you read aloud in your middle school classroom or have staged that held important themes and messages? I’d love to learn about them.

Email me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com

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Easy-to-Use Middle School Drama Lessons: Volume 1

Easy-to-Use Middle School Drama Lessons: Volume 1

From Grad School to the Classroom: What Really Works with Middle Schoolers

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