Aims of drama in the classroom
- To work with a partner
- To work in a group
- To concentrate and cooperate
- To demonstrate careful listening
- To think quickly and logically
- To remember lines
- To speak your thoughts
- To project the voice
Participation in drama classes in a school environment incorporates tried and tested plans built and worked around movement, voice and characterisation.
The class plans used provide instant ideas for starting and developing drama sessions to suit each specific age groups.
Movement
Movement is a natural form of expression and commences each class in an uninhibited style. This is achieved by using expressive mime, fun games, object shapes, animal movement and the use of props. Activities incorporate ideas of solo, paired and group work.
Voice
Many activities rely on a sense of group awareness by using choral speech and repetition, poems, play extracts and improvisation. These mediums can be an icebreaker and can lead to some interesting drama sessions where pupils really learn to enjoy their voices in a very uninitiated manner.
Character
Character activities explore characterisation using scripted extracts. This gives students the opportunity to work on developing what they have learned in movement and voice by extending their performance skills. It is also a way of introducing students to quality literature and gain insight into the communicative power of drama.
This work can be tailored to suit different schools and teacher requirements before the block of classes commence.