Thursday, June 25, 2015

Looking For Short Plays For The Classroom

By Freida Michael


When children take part in a play, they come alive and they can learn so much from the experience. Today there are many short plays for the classroom available from online sources. They can easily be incorporated into the curriculum. Learning is made fun and each one is written to appeal to a specific age group. Pupils participate actively instead of just listening to the teacher and this encourages the development of all kinds of skills.

If a teacher has a very specific type of play in mind, there are various ways an online search can be refined. The age of pupils, the type and style of play, number of parts are some of the selections offered. Some are more suitable for very young children and others for a teenage audience. The most popular scripts, particularly for younger children, are those that make them laugh.

These scripts work well without necessarily having to use costumes or stage props. These can be included if this can be arranged. The pupils do not have to memorize the lines but can simply read from the script, using appropriate facial expressions and hand gestures. Studies have shown that their reading skills often improve greatly as a result of a getting them to read scripts on a regular basis. Their language skills also improve as a result.

Another way a play can be used is in helping to learn certain life skills. What is learned in a fantasy context can help with daily problems like bullying or lying. Universal themes like life and death, the natural and supernatural can also be introduced in this manner. This can help the pupils to understand complex emotions more easily and learn how to cope with every day life.

When participating in a play, even the most shy, withdrawn pupils can be drawn in. It is a wonderful way to include them and before they know it, they have developed more self confidence. Children who battle academically often find great creative expression in drama too.

It also encourages working together with others in a group. Each pupil learns how to appreciate the input of someone else and they have to learn to give each one a chance for expression. This is an essential skill to master in preparation for life. Pupils learn to encourage one another, share and participate together in a fun activity that benefits them all.

Scripts come in many different forms. Some of them require participation of only a few pupils but the others must then listen carefully and this builds their listening skills. Others require the participation of all the pupils. Every pupil gets a turn to speak, even if it is just one line. Some scripts have a few main actors and a chorus of players who have to speak their lines in concert. The number of parts required in the script needs to be checked before purchase to make sure it is appropriate for the particular class.

Participating in a play increases confidence, allows pupils to express themselves and gives them many life skills. The power of drama in learning cannot be underestimated. Inspire, entertain, teach and have fun with some good play scripts. Everyone benefits from including drama in learning.




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