The drama area is a place where learning is layered. Many drama activities stem from a literature experience during which children encounter a book read aloud by a teacher. Students then interact with one another, acting out parts of the story and engaging in communication and movement.
In the last week, the children were exploring a book called A Letter to Amy by Ezra Jack Keats. In this story, a little boy plans a party and wants to invite a friend. He writes a letter, puts on his raincoat, and heads out to the mailbox.
Pretending within a familiar task or context gives students an opportunity to develop independence and self-control.
After hearing the story, Ms. Knoester helped the children get their own coats. She modeled a new way to put on a jacket all by yourself called "The Flip." Many children have mastered this trick already and can put on their own jackets!
After putting on jackets, the children walked with Ms. Knoester to deliver an invitation to Ms. Miltner in the Main Office. Taking an invitation to her gave the children a chance to practice walking in a line, a skill new to many of them. Also during this activity, Ms. Knoester modeled using writing to convey a message, increasing their awareness about the importance of print.
Literacy, lessons of self-control, and the routines of school are layered in these beginning drama area experiences.
As children practice independence with simple school routines, they develop confidence in their abilities to participate and have success at school. The context of the story helps them make connections with life outside of school and also to imagine other possibilities for sending messages and invitations.
Maybe you would like to mail some messages this week from home (and make sure to have your child show you how to do The Flip!).
