Tag Archives: Arts

Why Drama is so Important in Schools

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why drama?

Over the next several weeks and months I’ll be writing a 12-part series about why drama is so important in schools.  I’ll be covering several different aspects of the benefits of why we do drama, what it gives our kids that very few extra-curricular activities can give, as well as ideas and suggestions on to how to make theater a robust and staple program within your school.

I’ll … Continue reading →

Classroom Insult-a-thon

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shakespeare insult video

Classroom Insult-a-thon

(Don’t forget, April 23rd is National Insult Like Shakespeare Day!)

It’s simple and fun and works like this:

  • Everyone writes up 3-4 different insults using the Shakespeare Insult Generator
  • They spend about 5-10 minutes practicing their insults, working on generating the appropriate delivery with angst!
  • Split the class into 2 groups that line up against each other
  • FIRST ROUND of insults: one student from each group steps forward and they insult each other with one of their insults.
  • The teacher, or some voting panel, votes for the best insult.  Loser … Continue reading →

    • Lesson Idea: The Top Ten Shakespeare List

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    Here is a clever idea that may engage your students in a short lesson plan, as well as open their eyes and minds to what Shakespeare has brought to the table.  Create a top ten Shakespeare list.  Here are some top ten Shakespeare ideas you can work with:

    • Characters (Puck, Hamlet, Othello… Who’s #1?)
    • Re-written story lines (i.e. Lion King or West Side Story, etc)
    • Speeches (To be, or not to be)
    • Quotes (Out, damn spot, out!)
    • Phrases (Method to his Madness)
    • Words (i.e. Alligator, Minds-eye, Dalmation, etc)

    Let me know if you think of more, so I … Continue reading →