Learning through Drama

In class we are currently doing a drama unit based on Maori Mythology.  However, in addition to learning about the Maori Mythology the students are also learning about the elements, conventions and techniques of drama.  At the end of this unit the students will be creating their own production to perform to their parents that includes using the conventions and techniques of drama to represent the creation story.  I have attached some youtube videos of my students participating in improvisations during their first time exploring conventions and techniques.

Drama improvisations - technologies

Drama improvisations - conventions

I have found that the drama unit has really helped the students with working in a variety of groups, asking questions, seeking clarification, being open to other student's ideas and to experience more success with POGIL styled learning.  As well as the improvisations that have been videod we have been solving real life problems using improvisations.  During cycle safety, one of my students located $20 on the ground.  He didn't know what to do with it as it was cash and so he brought it back to school and told me and the local policeman about it when he got to school.  The policeman told him that he had done the right thing letting him know that he had found money, but that noone would go into the police to ask for a lost $20 and so he could keep it.  This student asked if we could do drama improvisations around the topic so that he could apply others ideas to help him solve the situation.  Essentially what he was doing - doing research before solving the problem aligned directly with POGIL and when this was pointed out to the students they were able to make great connections with their learning in drama and the learning style that they are exploring in other subjects.  Many other students also shared stories of when similar things happened to them and so it was great to be able to use the vehicle of drama to make a real life problem into a teachable moment in many senses.  Below is a photo of the students participating in cycle safety before hitting the road with Constable Neil.