Describes a fun game in which students act as electrons, protons, and neutrons. This activity is designed to help students develop a concrete understanding of the abstract concept of atomic structure. (DKM)

Presents four short essays by teachers on foreign words and phrases, letting students critique textbooks, speeding grading by alphabetizing, and role playing using computers. (RS)

This article discusses the value of using fantasy and role playing games (FRPG) in the curriculum of gifted students. It lists ways that FRPG can supplement 26 academic subjects and develop 24 learning skills. Objections from religious groups to use of the games are addressed. Different types of games are compared. (CR)

Notes that New York University's Steinhardt School of Education offers a program in educational theater with noted practitioners in the field. Provides a narrative description of one process drama session conducted by Warwick Dobson with a group of ninth graders. Explains that this session focused on the novel "The Breadwinner," which is set in…

Presents a discussion tool that the author has incorporated into the classroom. Describes how she combines two approaches into a non-graded group work with a role-playing component, a technique she integrates into the classroom numerous times throughout every semester. Concludes how eventually students confidently present their well-supported…

Law-Related Education (LRE) is a curriculum for elementary through high school students that focuses on civil, criminal, and constitutional themes as they revolve around familiar topics. LRE programs teach objective facts through the immediacy of group process. In 1989-90, LRE was active in 43 states. (MLF)

Explores the benefits in using textbook dialogue as script to be performed in the second language classroom. Teachers, in the role of director, can use theatrical techniques and suggest appropriate pantomime, gestures, and voice inflections to enhance the script. (CB)

Describes team-building activities for mental health counselors who function as consultants to staffs, groups, or other intact work systems. Provides rationale for application of strategic systems and sociodrama techniques to an adventure activity that allows a group to metaphorically enact its common issue. Provides example of a consultation…

Describes a unit on censorship using simulations (of school board meetings and a principal seizing books) to engage students actively with the issue. (MM)

During the interaction prelude to role setting, claiming a coveted role through unilateral role behavior is strategically vulnerable. A distinct action ideal, called local action, is used to avoid role claims until there is evidence that a claimed role will be conferred. Local action provides an explanation for balanced reciprocity. (Author/BJV)

Provides both the pedagogic and scientific thinking that guided the construction of a classroom role play called "The Great Evolution Debate," which is about the publication of Darwin's "The Origin of Species." Provides tentative findings regarding learning from role playing. (ZWH)

Survey responses from 48% of 132 adult/continuing education tutors in the United Kingdom and follow-up interviews indicated that, despite recognition of the need for active student involvement, use of experiential methods was restricted. Many preferred the term "interactive" and thought such methods were useful occasionally but should be…

Presents a plan for using melodrama for teaching about the Progressive era. Argues that the melodrama can be a method for historical research. Explains procedures, guidelines on design, and evaluation methods. Includes a sample melodrama, outline handout, observation form, and review form. (SG)

Examines the nature of personal, idiosyncratic interpretations and responses to reading assignments. Suggests how teachers can help students understand the differences between their interpretations and the authors' intended messages. Provides three strategies--anticipation guides, mapping, and role playing--to help students synthesize their…

Describes one teacher's methods for introducing to secondary English students the concepts of improvisation, experimentation, and innovation. Discusses numerous techniques for fostering such skills when working with William Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream." (HB)