Drama and Writing Ages 5-11

Book excerpt: Drama and Writing Ages 5-11 is a practical guide for teachers to develop and inspire writing through using drama in the classroom. Each of the ten chapters provides step-by-step guidance and creative prompts for writing that apply to both key stage one and key stage two, enabling teachers to motivate their pupils by creating meaningful contexts, audiences and purposes to encourage writing. With a wide range of ideas to apply to the classroom, from simple classroom strategies to more complex units of work, this book is suitable for all teachers – including those who hold limited experience of using drama in the classroom. Including key definitions of drama strategies and practical advice to apply to the classroom, chapters are presented in two parts: Part I provides short and simple drama strategies to act as a helping hand, stimulating the focus of a writing lesson Part II provides longer dramatic contexts with a compelling sense of audience and purpose, including a range of opportunities for writing. These prompts may span two or more lessons Drama and Writing Ages 5-11 is an essential read for any primary school teacher seeking practical strategies to incorporate drama into the classroom, teaching the craft of writing in a creative, fun and meaningful way.