A Typical Drama Lesson

Most schools will have some sort of drama syllabus for Key Stage 3 (KS3), even if pupils only have one lesson of drama a week. These syllabuses might vary between those that have a strong emphasis on role play (that is, groups of pupils exploring a social situation, such as 'bullying') and those that have a more 'theatrical' focus, looking at types of drama, such as Greek tragedy or melodrama. Many courses will fuse these elements together. Of course, much will depend on the environment. You might find that your drama lessons have to be taught in a classroom, in which case allow time for moving tables or desks. If you are fortunate, there could be access to the hall or a dedicated drama studio (which might have to be booked in advance).

Drama lessons can follow any number of forms and often work will progress over a number of weeks.

Key points to bear in mind

Strike a balance between play and skills work: most pupils like drama, but it can often be unfocused, and drawing out techniques for improvement can be hard work. Nevertheless this is important.
Pupils like using drama as a means of working out emotions and articulating experiences. Be ruthless with slipshod work that loses sight of what you are trying to achieve.
Make sure that drama retains its own pedagogy and areas of knowledge.
Plan drama lessons as carefully as you would any other. Breaking down the lesson into manageable sections will lead to a higher quality of work - do not assume pupils can just 'get on with it'.

Resources:

TeacherNet - the education site for teachers and school managers: www.teachernet.gov.uk

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