Cheryl E. Merritt
Now let’s begin to write! As the writing begins remind students that there is no right or wrong way to solve a problem. Since some problems may have more than one possible solution, working on the solving of problems open everyone to their own source of power.
Familiarize students with the language of drama exposing them to terms that are used often. This could be done by giving them handouts or writing definitions on the board. Terms such as listed below should be included.
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1. DRAMA is a composition intended to portray life or to tell a story usually involving conflicts and emotions through action and dialogue. It is typically designed for theatrical performance.
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2. SETTING is the time and place of the action in a drama.
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3. COSTUMES are outfits worn to create the appearance characteristic of a particular period, person, place, or thing.
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4. GESTURES are motions of the body or limbs as a means of expression.
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5. SOUND EFFECTS are imitations of sounds called for in the script of a play, radio, television program or movie.
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6. DIALOGUE is a written composition in which two or more characters are conversing.
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7. PLOT is the plan or main story of a drama.
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8. CHARACTER is one of the persons of a drama of novel.
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9. THEME is a subject or topic.
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10. SCENERY is the painted scenes or hangings and accessories used on a theatrical stage.
This can be followed up by oral reviews or written reviews and quizzes. The teacher may also decide to introduce only a few terms at a time. This should be thought about very carefully because ability levels of the students will vary.
Before separating students into groups they will need some guidelines for the writing process. The following outline can be divided into four or five lessons taught consecutively or staggered as students reach each stage of writing.
