With back-to-school season upon us, your soon-to-be middle schoolers might be feeling nervous about what’s to come, or worried about making ‘mistakes’ during their first week.
Every class is different, but when it comes to theatre, there’s often more emphasis put on performance and participation - which can be especially daunting for quieter students.
As a teacher, it’s part of your job to ensure that your students are engaged and motivated during your lessons. Here are three ways to encourage participation in your next theatre class…
Create a Collaborative Environment
As Theatre Director Emma Rice summarized in a recent DT+ blog, “there are many enemies of ‘play’, but the biggest one is fear”.
If students are worried about ‘embarrassing themselves’, or about being mocked by their classmates, they are far less likely to contribute to practical activities or class discussions.
Not only does this make your role as a teacher more difficult, it also detracts from the child’s ability to take in new concepts, or to develop their communication skills.
So, if you want your middle schoolers engaged and proactive when it comes to their learning, you need to create a safe and collaborative environment:
- Collaborate with your students to create a social contract for the year.
- Encourage a 'Yes, And' approach to group discussions and performances.
- Level the playing field - show your class that they're allowed to have fun!
The Cast of The Comedy of Errors | RSC © Pete Le May
Be Open-Minded about Participation
For many middle schoolers, class participation - particularly for creative subjects like theatre, can be scary. Unlike subjects like math or science, there’s not always one correct answer for them to find or figure out.
In the same way, there’s not always one correct way to participate in a theatre lesson (although we’re sure you could name plenty of ‘wrong’ ways!). If you’re sensing some nerves in your classroom, why not practice some nonverbal communication exercises.
The DT+ Platform includes Class Starters such as the example above!
Best of all, this Class Starter doesn't just prepare your students for the lesson ahead - it also doubles as a bite-sized introduction to nonverbal forms like physical theatre or dance!
Ignite their Passion for the Arts
Finally, it sounds obvious, but if your students feel passionate about a subject, they’re far more likely to engage with it.
Finding (and igniting) this passion becomes easier the more you get to know your class, but it’s still possible during the first few weeks of the semester. Icebreaker activities can help you to observe class dynamics, and your social contract can serve as a reminder to their students that their opinions and ideas are welcome.
While there’s no ‘one-stop shop’ for inspiring students, a good place to start is with varied resources, student-centered lesson plans, and by granting yourself the space and time you need to be the best version of your professional self.
When it comes to all of that, Digital Theatre+ is here to help!
If you'd like to explore the Digital Theatre+ platform and are not yet a customer, please get in touch with a member of our team today. If you already have a subscription, click here.