Seventh Grade Drama Lesson: Exploring the Elements of Drama

Title: Exploring the Elements of Drama

Compliance: Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts - Grade 7

Subject: Drama

Summary: This lesson introduces seventh grade students to the key elements of drama, including plot, character, setting, and dialogue, through interactive activities and discussions.

Topic: Elements of Drama

Learning Outcomes

• Identify and define the key elements of drama
• Analyze how the elements of drama contribute to the overall meaning and impact of a play
• Create and perform short scenes that incorporate the elements of drama

Methodology

This lesson will be delivered through a combination of teacher-led discussions, group activities, and individual work. Students will actively engage with the content through hands-on activities and creative exercises.

Resources/Materials Required

• Whiteboard or blackboard
• Markers or chalk
• Chart paper and markers
• Printed copies of short scenes from plays
• Index cards
• Costume and prop items (optional)

Instructions

Introduction (10 minutes)

1. Begin the lesson by asking students what they think of when they hear the word 'drama.' Write their responses on the board.

2. Explain that drama is a form of literature that is meant to be performed. It involves the use of dialogue, actions, and stage directions to tell a story.

Exploring the Elements of Drama (30 minutes)

1. Introduce the key elements of drama: plot, character, setting, and dialogue. Define each element and provide examples from well-known plays or movies.

2. Divide the class into small groups and assign each group one element of drama to focus on.

3. Give each group chart paper and markers. Instruct them to create a visual representation of their assigned element, including its definition and examples.

4. After the groups have completed their charts, have them present their findings to the class. Encourage discussion and ask guiding questions to deepen understanding.

Creating and Performing Short Scenes (40 minutes)

1. Distribute printed copies of short scenes from plays to each student.

2. Instruct students to read the scenes individually and identify the elements of drama present in each scene.

3. Have students form pairs or small groups and assign each group a scene to perform.

4. Provide index cards to each group and ask them to write down the key elements of drama they will incorporate into their performance.

5. Give students time to rehearse their scenes, focusing on incorporating the elements of drama effectively.

6. Allow each group to perform their scene for the class. After each performance, facilitate a brief discussion on how the elements of drama were used and the impact they had on the overall meaning of the scene.

Wrap-up and Assessment (10 minutes)

1. Lead a class discussion on the importance of the elements of drama in storytelling and performance.

2. Distribute index cards to each student and ask them to write down one thing they learned about the elements of drama during the lesson.

3. Collect the index cards as a formative assessment of student understanding.

By the end of this lesson, students should:

• Know the key elements of drama
• Understand how the elements of drama contribute to the overall meaning and impact of a play
• Be able to create and perform short scenes that incorporate the elements of drama