The Arts

Warm Up Activity - Pitch, Volume & Tempo

As a class recite a popular nursery rhyme (eg. row row row your boat).

Firstly recite as you would as your regular self.

Then recite as quiet as you can or as loud as you can.

Recite with an accent or as a particular persona (ie baby, monster

Divide the class into 2 or 3 groups. Each group recites the song in their chosen style.

Conduct a round roll (each group reciting only once)

 

Body - Wrap it up!

Tell a Tale: 

As a class, brainstorm some popular short stories. Allow students to draw on a range of genres; fairytales, fables, tv show episodes etc. Ask students what these stories have in common, and what are different. You are aiming for responses about learning lessons, beggining middle end, multiple characters, conflict or problems. 

 

Tell your Tale:

Working in their groups of approximately 4, students are to devise a short (3-5 minute) scene incorporating elements of mime, tableau and voice, with a focus on movement and facial expression. Students will have 40 minutes this lesson to plan and begin developing their scenes, with roughly 30 minutes of the next lesson to finish off. Inform students that this will be an assessed performance however there is no need for extensive props or costume. Whilst students are planning and developing their scenes, the teacher will be roaming the room providing assistance and feedback. It is important for the teacher to ensure all members of the group are working together and the scene is of an appropriate context. Provide each group with the assessment rubric as a guide for what they will be assessed on. 

 

Conclusion

Based on the nature of this lesson, no formal performance will take place. Instead you will lead students through a guided imagery session. Allow students to lie on their backs in a comfortable position with their eyes closed. Turn the lights off and play relaxing music (an extensive range can be found on youtube). 

 

Once the session has finished, allow students a few minutes to restore themselves and adjust to the light again. Instruct them to slowly open their eyes and slowly sit up to avoid dizziness.