Using Drama to Engage Teens in Written Language

1
Using Drama to Engage Teens in Written
Language

• Module 10, Session 5
• Mary Male, Ph.D.

2
Learning to Read through acting

• Learning to read through reading like an actor
• Reading and writing are not just individual
  skills but are frequently shared and social
  
• Acting out words reinforces their relationship to
  context
  
• Drama appeals to all of the senses

3
Radio Plays

• Provides a hands-on approach to reading and
  writing
  
• Intrigues the imagination and allows for creative
  self-expression
  
• Integrates all language arts skills

4
Films and Documentaries

• Engaging students in meaningful projects linked
  to social change
  
• Step-by-step learning
• Selecting a topic
• Doing research
• Rough-cut filming and feedback
• Revisions
• Evaluation

5
Adapting a Classic Play to Local Time and Place

• Step by step
• Students must be familiar with original play
  (Romeo and Juliet)
  
• Students search local culture and area for themes
  and characters that can be adapted (West Side
  Storygangs in New York, or The Tragic Story of
  Kenke and Atsaq set in the Alaskan tundra)