Just woke up from a long nap after teaching T.A.G. classes at OKTC! T.A.G. stands for “The Actor Grows” and is a program we have here for all the new kids to the company who are in gra…
I'm in my third year of teaching middle school theatre and finally feeling like I'm not constantly drowning. I've had my students complete a bell-ringer/warm up assignment in a notebook for the last two and half years so they can learn concepts and focus on theatre while I take care of housekeeping tasks and learning is still happening. I've decided my goal for next year is to implement interactive notebooks in my classroom and change the formatting of my bell-ringers. Interactive notebooks are not new to me; I saw them in use by the wonderful elementary teachers I worked with as a special ed assistant. I recently took a workshop at TETA Theatrefest about the notebooks, which sparked my interest. I love colors and note-taking, but I also see how some kids don't like this. I, however, feel it would be a great way for them to learn concepts and complete assignments without loose-leaf paper. It can be something they are proud of with drawings, colors, and stickers. I kept the notebook I received at the TETA workshop and I started creating sample lessons for middle school theatre at all levels. Below are some of the ideas I've come up with: Here's the cover. I know; it's simple. The workshop instructor made a good point when she said glued on images fray and fall off through the year. A simple cover with the student's name and class period works. These notebooks should be kept in the classroom, sorted by period. These two pages showcase a lesson about how our bi-annual speech tournaments work in my district. I used foldables and sticky notes to have students understand how sectioning works and which events to pick. I always have them create a goal they want to achieve so they can focus on that as they prepare for the tournament. This is a Theatre I lesson on stage directions. Have them paste in the grid and fill it out as a class. You could use stickies and foldables, as well. The above photo is a section about the UIL one act play unit set pieces. I teach in Texas, and UIL one act play contest = life! My job at the middle school level is to teach them the basics and give them experience with the contest before they go to high school. Our district contest is competitive and so much fun at the middle school level. This is a lesson teaching the critique process for theatre, musicals, and film. Later in the notebook I can have them write a page-long, paragraph form critique based on this lesson. Envelopes are a fun idea! Students can keep show tickets in one throughout the year, and in this improv lesson they can keep character idea cards for when we play improv games. I also includes foldables for CROW and the Four Rules (Tina Fey!) of improv. You can also use foldables for Character Analysis, External/Internal Characteristics, The Rehearsal Process, playwrights, careers, vocabulary, etc. I know several teachers on my campus deal with warm ups and bell-rings differently. Some flip the notebook over and have them record the warm ups in the notebook that way. I've created a weekly template to use next year. They will keep it in their binder and turn it in every Friday. When it's graded they can cut out the warm up template and glue it on the next clean page in their notebook for reference. Open notes quizzes can be given. I've seen the idea of sawing composition books in half for smaller notebooks, and I think I will do that for rehearsal notebooks for my after school shows. They are small enough to keep with their scripts and they don't need a ton of space for their individual notes. Bookmarks can be added with tape and a ribbon on the back cover. The possibilities are endless with interactive notebooks. There are plenty of free resources online, especially Pinterest. Happy notebooking! Kasey
It's not often that the subject comes up here on the blog, but I own a private drama studio that operates out of my house. It's awesome ...
When I first started teaching, I didn’t quite know how to approach the drama section of our art curriculum. We would do a few skits, occasionally play a version of Bus Stop where one kid had to make another laugh, and call it a day. I wanted to breathe some life into our drama activities and make things fun again. Improv games were a perfect fit!
Try these middle school drama lessons and ideas.
We Are Thespians!
Discover the traditional and modern Methods of Teaching Theatre. From script analysis to interactive techniques, unleash creativity and foster empathy.
Drama games & activities in your classroom or drama club as warm-ups, ice breakers, or as fun activities to start any class!
I made this poster for my drama students and now it is a social media sensation. Order yours to share what all theatre-lovers and practitioners already know -- that theatre teaches us so many valuable life skills. Share it in your classrooms, conference rooms or theater lobby. Made by a professional union actor, theatre-maker and educator. Support live theatre! Our heavier-weight, white, premium matte paper has a natural, smooth uncoated finish that feels luxurious to the touch. Features: The 200 gsm/ 80 lb paper weight makes it durable and long-lasting. We use FSC-certified paper or equivalent certifications depending on regional availability. It’s better for the people and the planet. Each poster is shipped in robust packaging, ensuring it arrives safe and secure. Paper sizes may vary slightly by region. For the US and Canada, the measurement is in inches, while for the rest of the world, it is in centimeters. It is printed and shipped on demand. No minimums are required.
drama activities and games for elementary students
Teaching drama is difficult because many students have no background knowledge in it. Use my anchor chart to engage students with colorful pictures and simple definitions that matches a classic drama that is easy to understand. You can customize your poster to make it fit the needs of your class as well.
The Perfect First Week Activity Every Theatre Teacher Should Know
This reading sheet is a fascinating peek into the past, great for reading practice or for just plain fun.
Integrating Drama into other Subjects - Drama Integration Resources - teaching theatre and drama techniques to help students learn other curricular areas.
Let's talk about free stuff! I know what it is like to be a beginning teacher. It can be anxiety ridden. It can be anxiety ridden. Do you suffer from Imposter Syndrome, too?
Running your own summer day camp? Hillary is back with some fun theatre games for kids, perfect for…
Step into the enchanting world of theatre design with our comprehensive "Intro to Costume, Set, Prop, Lighting, and Sound Design Worksheet Bundle" - an engaging resource thoughtfully crafted for elementary students. This exciting bundle encompasses all aspects of theatrical production, allowing young learners to explore their creativity in designing captivating stage experiences! 1. In this immersive resource, young artists will design captivating costumes for their imaginative characters, bringing their theatrical visions to life. 2. Students will embark on a thrilling journey to create mesmerizing stage settings, transporting the audience to magical worlds and faraway lands. 3.Young designers will craft innovative and imaginative props, adding depth and excitement to their theatrical creations. 4. Unleash the magic of lighting effects as students create mesmerizing atmospheres, setting the perfect mood for each scene. 5. Dive into the art of sound design, where students will add realistic and captivating sounds, transforming the stage into a living story. 6. Comprehensive Learning Experience:This bundle encourages collaborative learning, boosts confidence, and fosters a love for theatre in young hearts. It complements visual arts, language arts, and drama curriculums, providing a holistic learning experience. Ideal for classroom activities, homeschooling, or drama clubs, this bundle offers a rich and diverse exploration of theatrical elements. Young learners will immerse themselves in the magic of theatre and create unforgettable stage experiences. #Teacher Pay Teachers (TPT) Resource #Elementary Theatre Design Bundle #Costume Design Worksheet #Set Design Activity#Prop Design Adventure#Lighting Design Worksheet Sound Design Exploration#Visual Arts and Drama Integration#Creative Stagecraft for Kids#Comprehensive Theater Resources#Imaginative Design Illustration#Elementary Drama Curriculum# Collaborative Learning Experience #Teacher Pay Teachers Resource# Elementary Theatre Design Bundle#Intro to Costume Design# Set Design Worksheet#Prop Design Adventure# Lighting Design Exploration# Sound Design Worksheet#Visual Arts and Drama Integration#Creative Stagecraft for Kids# Comprehensive Theater Resources# Elementary Drama Curriculum#Collaborative Learning Experience# Theater Production for Young Learners# Fun and Educational Design Activities# Imaginative Stage Experiences
Theatre education. WHAT is it? HOW do I incorporate it into my lesson plans? WHY is theatre important for kids and learning?
Tips and Tricks of a Drama Teacher-- Drama Tools, That Is This is a continuation of my last blog about the tips and tricks of a drama teacher. Most of us have some form of a work nightmare. You know, you dream when you are at work and everything is crazy. Mine are different!
We Are Thespians!
Big Fish, Small Fish is a popular cool down drama game suitable for children aged 6 and above, to improve focus and concentration.
Overview This performance-based course will explore the art of performing monologues, scene acting, and ensemble acting. Classroom...
American Online High School is the premier online high school education program designed to fit your needs. Whether you are looking to home school a student in grades 9-12, or an adult looking to obtain a high school diploma
Starting Arts has always had a very close partnership with parents in the community. Parents have the power to change their school culture in amazing and effective ways. For example, Starting Arts…
drama activities and games for elementary students
These fun drama games and activity ideas are sure to bring hours of fun and laughter to the drama team or department. These games can be used as warm-ups,
This Actor Toolbox Classroom Poster is perfect for introducing young theatre students to the tools at their disposable. I use this poster to show my students that everything they need in theatre comes from within themselves. Great as a classroom anchor chart printable - simply download and print your own poster!
Nefertiti Makeup? Venus of Willendorf fertility services? Ancient Egyptian Funeral Home? Your students will love coming up with commercials inspired by art!
Tableau, the theatrical technique in which actors freeze in poses to create a picture of one important moment, is an arts-integrated teaching strategy.
drama activities and games for elementary students
Wow. It has been WAY TOO LONG since I have blogged. The holidays all the way from October to December were quite busy. I did a lot of the ...
Google Docs for Easy Editing! Perfect introduction for set design for elementary students with our engaging and interactive Set Design Worksheet, specially crafted for elementary students! This resource is the perfect introduction to the art of set design, allowing young minds to explore their creativity and bring their theatrical visions to life.Can be adapted to work with almost any existing script or existing story. Key Features: 1. Students will draw a stage and let their imaginations run wild as they envision their play's setting. 2. As budding directors, students will choose a play title and decide where their story unfolds - a magical forest, a bustling city, or a cozy home. 3. With enthusiasm, young artists will sketch the scenery, providing the perfect set environment for their theater masterpieces. 4. Students will brainstorm and draw props for actors to enhance their performances. 5. From twinkling stars to falling leaves, young designers will create imaginative special effects or lights or sound that add enchantment to their theatrical world. 6. In the final step, students will bring their set design to life with vibrant colors, making their stage an eye-catching work of art. This fun and educational Set Design Worksheet encourages collaborative learning, boosts confidence, and fosters a love for theater in young hearts. Perfect for classroom use or homeschooling, this resource complements visual arts, language arts, and drama curriculums, providing a comprehensive and engaging learning experience. #Teacher Pay Teachers (TPT) Resource#Elementary Set Design Worksheet#Theater Arts and Scenic Design#Creative Stagecraft Activity#Visual Arts and Drama Integration#Set Design Lesson Plan#Theater Production and Design for Kids#Drama and Visual Arts Curriculum#Engaging Set Design Activities#Student-Led Set Design Project#Theater Set and Props Creation#Fun and Educational Theater Resources#Elementary Theater Arts Activity#Theater and Design Collaboration#Stage Design for Elementary Students
In this gesture-based name game, participants develop a signal to help others remember their names. It's great on the first day of class or rehearsal.
Improv games for teens can warm up their acting and collaboration skills. They can enhance creative thinking and be used as icebreaker tools in new teen groups.
Drama games & activities in your classroom or drama club as warm-ups, ice breakers, or as fun activities to start any class!
When I first started teaching, I didn’t quite know how to approach the drama section of our art curriculum. We would do a few skits, occasionally play a version of Bus Stop where one kid had to make another laugh, and call it a day. I wanted to breathe some life into our drama activities and make things fun again. Improv games were a perfect fit!
