Using Creative Drama in the Writing and Reading Process.

N

11

Classroom Techniques; Communication Skills; Drama; Elementary Education; Imagination; Language Arts; Reading Instruction; Writing Instruction

New lines of understanding and self expression are two facets of drama which are useful in teaching reading and writing. Techniques of creative drama offer an engaging way of enforcing writing process concepts. Drama can be a vehicle to get listening, speaking, reading and writing to interact in a creative and holistic way. Curricular objectives in using creative drama include developing creativity, inventiveness, curiosity, questioning skills and self-perception. Guided imagery is one dramatic technique which can be used as a prereading experience, a prewriting or brainstorming experience, as the beginning of the writing process, and to develop listening and speaking skills. Steps in guided imagery include: (1) breathing exercises; (2) setting the stage; (3) use of words suggesting the 5 senses; and (4) debriefing. Allowing students to use their imaginations through guided imagery can foster new ideas, which aids the development of communication skills, both oral and written. Contains 11 references. (EF)

2001

ED445358