Reflection Week #4 - Drama

What -

Today, and in this week's reading, we learned about using drama in the classroom. We also learned a lot of various techniques and ways to implement drama into the classroom. I have to be honest I was extremely nervous to participate in the activities in class when I first walked in the room, but I gradually became more comfortable participating in them. It made me realize that my feelings probably mirrored those that my students will have, and it made me think about how important it is to give students that safe place to express themselves. It also made me reflect on the importance of gradually getting students comfortable to drama.

So What -

Now that I have gotten the chance to experience a variety of drama activities I don't think that I will specifically focus on one in the classroom. I can definitely see myself using Teacher - In - Role a lot and activities where the students take on a character we are learning about like Hot Seating and  Collective role play. I really like the dept of learning that takes place when students are asked to take on a character they are learning about.


Now What -


I never really realized why drama should be used in the classroom and couldn't remember using it as a child except for in school plays. After learning about it in class today and reading in the book I realized it was used more then I noticed. It was amazing to me how, if used correctly, drama can be placed in just about any lesson. It enhances the learning that takes place and makes the learning fun! It not only helps the kids learn the material, but it helps them learn to control their behavior and work together. I also loved that it is proven to decrease separations and cliques in classrooms. I know that in the higher grades especially cliques are a huge problem and I know that when I face that I will use drama as a way to help solve those problems.