Explains how the theater arts require a blend of contemplation and creativity that embodies the heart of real education. Demonstrates that for an actor and a director to produce a scene they must read and understand the lines, research the context, and define the character emotionally, intellectually, and physically. (TB)

Looks at the social responsibilities and implications of scientists and science through the use of plays. (24 references) (MKR)

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)

Finds that children's ethnicity and gender, and possibly the socio-cultural composition of the school population, are variables that influence how characters are perceived and themes extracted from a theater event. (SR)

Describes a classroom collaborative activity in which students are asked to write one-act plays based on three characters, two of whom know each other, and a third who affects the other two. Presents details of carrying out the assignment, and evaluates student response. (HB)

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)

Explores the development of a support group for elementary school teachers who wished to increase their expertise in drama education. Shows that change is a slow process, but with continuing support from peers and perceived experts, teachers can change both their beliefs about drama education and their strategies in teaching drama. (SR)

Presents a conceptual framework for examining cultural diversity in theater and drama programs for young people. Describes and analyzes specific strategies used to increase cultural diversity in various organizations observed in the spring of 1991. (HB)

Provides insights into the benefits of using role playing in the context of cross-grade educational activities. Demonstrates these benefits by giving transcripts of interviews with fifth and sixth graders as well as second and third graders who participated in such activities. (HB)

Considers ways of developing interest in drama and literature among high school students. Shows how teachers might develop such an interest by allowing students to see how the literary works reflect their own personal experiences. Illustrates this method in discussing the novel "Flowers for Algernon." (HB)

Describes a drama workshop designed to teach English as a Second Language. Offers specific exercises which were used to help students learn to introduce themselves, use body language and inflection, use formal and informal language, and speak with conviction. (PRA)

Discusses the value of plays written for young readers, actors, and playgoers. Relates how important dramatic plays have been throughout the author's educational experience. Describes important children's literature written in the form of plays. (HB)

Describes the author's first visit to Bulgaria to visit classes, attend student performances, and talk with the faculty at the National Academy of Theater Arts and Film. Discusses their use of theater technique, such as puppetry, as a therapeutic tool and the vitality and expertise they displayed in their play performances. (CR)

Outlines a Year 10 unit on teaching "Romeo and Juliet" based on standard experiential conventions which include the following: (1) Teacher in Role, (2) Soundscaping, (3) Freeze Frames, (4) Alter Egos, (5) Hot Seating, and (6) Role Playing. Suggests that these conventions can be applied to the study of any Shakespearean play. (NH)

Claims drama in the classroom offers teachers an opportunity to "bring to life" the challenges and triumphs of African Americans. Describes a drama workshop based on the story of Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad. (NH)