Drama at KS3(Objectives | Starting a drama lesson | Games and warm-ups )

Objectives

Each student should

* identify with characters and actions through rôle-play, (for example, a dramatized story/and as spectators of a performance);
* have the confidence and ability to put across a particular point of view;
* learn how to work with others to solve human and practical problems;
* create and take part in improvised scenes in order to explore issues;
* invent and develop convincing rôles in specific situations;
* know how to structure dramatic sequences in order to convey meaning;
* be aware of the need for dramatic conventions (eg. light, dark, movement, pause, sound, silence);
* be aware of and use a variety of dramatic forms and techniques, to express ideas and feelings (eg. mime, movement, costume, make-up, props, set-design);
* appreciate drama in performance, both as participants and as spectators;
* understand the educational, cultural and social purposes of drama;
* develop a vocabulary of theatre/drama;
* explore the variety of human emotions through drama;
* learn to listen and concentrate;
* learn to respect and where appropriate, depend on, others (e.g. trust skills);
* develop awareness (sensitivity) and enjoyment of the ways groups work (e.g. decision-making, problem solving, negotiation), willingness to accept responsibility, a democratic approach;
* evaluate his or her achievements as an individual and through groups in which he or she works; learn critical awareness;
* appreciate the values and attitudes of their own and other communities, recognize social conventions and stereotypes - be prepared to examine them;
* explore cross-curricular themes;

Good drama requires a clear sense of discipline and direction from both teachers and students; all are equally responsible for the quality of learning that takes place.
Starting a drama Lesson

This is a suggested or example procedure or routine. Teachers should adapt it to the local needs of your own students.

* Take shoes off
* Put coats and bags on rack or other storage area
* Stack chairs (clear the room)
* Close curtains or blinds where possible
* Stand or sit in a circle
* Pupils register with teacher
Games and warm-ups

Use games and exercises, physical and/or verbal, for one or more of the following reasons:

* to introduce the main theme of the lesson
* to remove inhibitions
* to increase concentration
* to help pupils listen
* to develop imagination, creativity, personal, social or emotional values of the group
* to arrange groupings to reflect differences of sex, aptitude and ability

These games will typically last from five to ten minutes.

Alternatively, a teacher may introduce the main theme immediately, (for example, the teacher may enter the circle in rôle).

As a teacher, you can gauge the classes' moods subjectively on entry, using eye-contact or body language as criteria. Take this into account in choosing your introduction.