From reader to actor: the classroom as theatre - Jane Bowie
Whether in Easy Reader or in original form, completing a classic work of literature is immensely rewarding for a student: but how to build on that enthusiasm and use it to activate language? This workshop aims to give practical teaching ideas from the world of theatre to stimulate student reaction in the classroom.
14 March 2009
2 years 6 weeks
Teaching English in an "arty" context, I'm also interested in expanding my classes with theatre techniques, I so I'm really looking forward to your workshop.
I've got one question, although I'm not sure if this is the right time or form to ask you: I'd like to know what age group, if any, you're going to focus on here.
Thanks for your time and all the best,
Marián
22 March 2010
2 years 4 weeks
Hello Mariàn, thanks for your question: I would say that given the linguistic ability needed I will be focussing on teens and adults. Often the same activity is possible with both groups with minor changes and of course realistic expectations given experience and "world knowledge". For middle school teens (11-13) it may be that the activities are perfectly feasible but the linguistic competence limited. For YLs (let's say primary age) I'd say that the activities are not realistic due to linguistic competence problems (while children are often however extremely competent in theatrical activity and in their own L1 can outstrip adult performance!)
I'd really like to encourage whoever comes along to contribute ideas as to how a minor change could make something suitable for other age groups/ linguistic competences (let's say I'd expect a good A2 borderline B1 level as a starting point) as I absolutely believe in "ecological teaching", ie recycling a good idea and saving on prep time but not on quality!
See you in Harrogate!
Jane