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Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

June 12, 2024 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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

9 Compelling Reasons Why You Need Lessons Using Super Heroes

April 18, 2023 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

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!

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!

Happy Super Hero Day!

April 28, 2021 By dhcbaldwin Leave a Comment

April 28 is Super Hero Day!

Who established Super Hero Day?

National Superhero Day was founded by Marvel Comics in 1995. Now, every year since its birth on April 28, 1995, people come together annually on this day to celebrate all their favorite heroes. No matter if your fav heroes are fictional or real, this is the day to be thankful for them.

Well, how fun!

When I was a child, Superman wasn’t near as popular as he is today. Now super heroes are everywhere.

Why should I teach about Super Heroes?

According to Brittanica.com, 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 first Super Hero ever was created in 1936? The superhero was named Phantom, and he started with his own comic strip in a U.S. newspaper. This was the first known beginnings of a published superhero, and now there are hundreds of well-known heroes that everyone loves.

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.

Students love to design a Super Hero costume. Here are a few pointers:

Figure out the color scheme of the costume. Usually, the whole costume should include 3 or fewer colors/shades only. This helps ensure that the costume does not distract from your superhero. It will also make it easier for you to replicate the look in a comic. Think of your superhero’s powers, motivations, and backstory. Lighter colors tend to indicate heroism, while darker colors indicate a conflicted nature; rich colors point toward sophistication, while bright colors tend to reveal youthful energy. If you’d like to read more about costume design, see my post: Your Secret Teaching Allies–Super Heroes
Classic superheroes tend to dress in some combination of red, blue, and yellow, which can denote energy and determination. A mix of black, grey, and green, though, could denote mysterious and naturalistic qualities.
Nail down the basic costume before accessorizing it.Design the actual outfit first, before figuring out the logo, or whether it will include a mask, cape, etc. Once you have designed your base costume, it gives you a blank slate to work with. Feel free to take cues from iconic superhero costumes, but be sure to refine them into your own creation. Skin-tight, full-coverage bodysuits tend to be the standard base layer for male superheroes, while female heroes often show a bit more skin. You don’t have to follow in this tradition, but body-hugging base layers do provide a clean palette for accessorizing.

What Color Scheme Should I Use?

Figure out the color scheme of the costume. Usually, the whole costume should include 3 or fewer colors/shades only. This helps ensure that the costume does not distract from your superhero. It will also make it easier for you to replicate the look in a comic. Think of your superhero’s powers, motivations, and backstory. Lighter colors tend to indicate heroism, while darker colors indicate a conflicted nature; rich colors point toward sophistication, while bright colors tend to reveal youthful energy.
Classic superheroes tend to dress in some combination of red, blue, and yellow, which can denote energy and determination. A mix of black, grey, and green, though, could denote mysterious and naturalistic qualities.

What About a Logo?

Nail down the basic costume before accessorizing it. Design the actual outfit first, before figuring out the logo, or whether it will include a mask, cape, etc. Once you have designed your base costume, it gives you a blank slate to work with. Feel free to take cues from iconic superhero costumes, but be sure to refine them into your own creation. Skin-tight, full-coverage bodysuits tend to be the standard base layer for male superheroes, while female heroes often show a bit more skin. You don’t have to follow in this tradition, but body-hugging base layers do provide a clean palette for accessorizing.
Consider if a cape is right for your hero. While capes are often considered synonymous with superheroes, plenty of famous ones — like Iron Man and Wolverine, for instance — go without them. Capes can help accentuate motion or indicate flight (think Superman), or add a layer of mystery (as with Batman). However, they can also be an unnecessary complication for a well-designed costume. If you can’t think of a good reason why your hero should have a cape — either for practical (e.g., concealment, protection) or expressive (e.g., flair, royalty) purposes — it may be best to exclude it.
Create a memorable logo or other distinctive element. Superman, Batman, and Spider-Man are arguably the three most famous superheroes, and each has a simple chest emblem — the ‘S’ shield, bat, and spider — that immediately identifies them. Don’t obsess over the small details of a totally-awesome costume before you’ve nailed down the iconic logo, symbol, color, etc. Make sure it’s easy to recognize and repeat, and that it can adapt to variations on your design. Brainstorm logo ideas based on the hero’s name, origins, or powers: in the last case, for instance, consider the lightning bolt used for the Flash.

My Super Hero Drama Lessons

If you’d like some drama lessons with super heroes as the focus, I have several here: DramaMommaSpeaks and also in my Payhip store at: Super Heroes

One lesson I developed focuses on storytelling. Using postcards as a springboard for a story, students take elements from the postcards they randomly choose. But, there is a secret requirement which is LOADS of Fun. You can learn about Storytelling with Super Heroes here: Storytelling with Super Heroes Postcards

Another lesson students enjoy is Costume Design with Super Heroes. In this lesson, students study costume design and learn a bit about the characteristics of a super hero costume. Then they design one costume plus write a letter explaining their choices. You can find this lesson here: Costume Design with Super Heroes

If you want further study, try movement with Super Heroes! These movement exercises are a great way to begin or end your class celebrating national super hero day. Word of warning–your student may leave class with a “zap” so if you are okay with that, you are good! Tableau and Movement with Super Heroes

I think Super Heroes and Super Heroes Day is here to stay. It does me good to see children imitating them, especially our girls. Here are my two granddaughters having fun as Super Heroes. I doubt either of them have seen many television shows or movies with Super Heroes in them since they are so young, but they know enough to understand super heroes protect people and try to make the world a better place. At this point in their short lives, I think that’s a good start.

Have you taught with a super hero theme? How did it go for you? I’d love to hear about it. Contact me at DhcBaldwin@gmail.com or DeborahBaldwin.net

Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques

Superhero Drama: Captivating Classroom Techniques