This week we got to take part in a drama workshop – drama puppets. We were split into breakout rooms and given the task of creating a story using shadow puppets we had created at home. We had 20 minutes to work together to decide on a beginning, middle and end to our story. Although this was initially daunting as we didn’t know which groups we would be put into it quickly became an enjoyable experience. We were able to share ideas and incorporate all of our shadow puppets into the story by creating a storyboard. This required each person to contribute in making the story and also delivering it back in the open forum. Unfortunately I don’t have photo of my shadow puppet but I do have an image of a quick story board from when we were deciding on our story.
When considering a task like this being used in the classroom it could be an effective way of encouraging children to work together but also take responsibility for their own role within the task. “Through drama, children are encouraged to take responsible roles and make choices- to participate in and guide their own learning” (Farmer, 2011). According to Farmer (2011) drama gives children the opportunity to think and act creatively which in turn helps to develop their critical thinking and problem solving skills. As discussed earlier these skills can be applied across all areas of their learning.
Farmer, D. (2011) Learning through drama in the primary years. Drama Resource.
